John Janicek, age 83 of Big Rapids, was called home to his Lord, as a good and faithful servant, on Wednesday, March 19, 2008. He was born October 1, 1924 in Vydrna, Czechoslovakia to George and Eva (Behro) Janicek. In 1937 John came to Big Rapids to live with his aunt and uncle, George and Suzie Tucker, on their farm. He attended Big Rapids High school, graduating after two years. John entered the United States Army in 1944. He was assigned to stand guard over the prisoners of the infamous Nuremberg trials during World War II. From the service he returned to Big Rapids and for the next 42 years helped to take care of his aunt. John continued to work as a farmer and then at a local grain elevator. Eventually he became a trucker with a local manufacturer and for 19 years served as a custodian and a groundkeeper at Ferris State University. He married Shirley Larsen on April 15, 1961 at the United Church of Big Rapids, where he has been a devout and active member; serving as a radio broadcast technician and the assistant custodian for many years. John had the pure heart of a volunteer and gave a lifetime of hours to his community and its members. In the 1950's John was one of the original founders of the Mecosta Twp. Station 2 Fire Department serving for over 45 years. He volunteered for the Mecosta County Sheriff's Posse for nearly 40 years. John was a charter and life member of V.F.W. Post # 4102. John and Shirley donated the property where the former V.F.W. building was located in Roger Heights. John was a force in this community that will never be replaced or forgotten. He is survived by his brother; Steve (Anne) Janicek of London, Ontario, 2 sisters; Susan (Joseph) Klucka and Emily (Joe) Uhlir, a sister-in-law; Irene Janicek all of Vydrna, Slovakia and many nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents, a brother; Milan Janicek and his beloved wife Shirley on July 19, 2005. Funeral services will take place 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 22nd at the United Church of Big Rapids with Pastor Jon Fleming officiating. Burial will be at Ladner Cemetery in Roger Heights. The family will greet friends on Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Memorial contributions in John's memory may be made to the United Church of Big Rapids or the Mecosta County Sheriff's Posse.