John L. Lange Sr., age 80 of Big Rapids, passed away Saturday, March 29, 2008 surrounded by his loving family. He was born December 15, 1927 in Big Rapids to Edward and Bertha (Steffen) Lange. John graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1945. He entered the United States Army Air Corps and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Following the service John attended Central Michigan University, Ferris State University and Worsham College of Mortuary Science. After successfully completing his State and National requirements, John became a licensed Funeral Director in 1952. He owned and operated the Lange Funeral Home in Ontonagon for many years. John was also an Ontonagon County Deputy Sheriff and in 1973 was appointed a Juvenile Officer for the County of Ontonagon by Governor William Milliken. He returned to Big Rapids in 1976 and worked at Ferris State University until the early 80's. John went into semi-retirement and during that time was a Licensed Funeral Director at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Due to health issues John fully retired. He was a lifetime member of the V.F.W., a member of the Am Vets Post #1941 of Big Rapids and a life time member of the Michigan Funeral Directors Association. John was an avid hunter and sportsman; he loved the Michigan outdoors. He faithfully played in the morning cribbage games at Szots Bar with his many friends. John will be forever remembered by his children as a devoted, dedicated and loving father, as he especially became to his 3 grandsons, Devin, Connor and Travis. He is survived by many dear friends and his loving family including; 2 sons; John Jr. (Merrie) Lange of Mecosta, David (Teri) Lange of Big Rapids, 2 daughters; Norma (Brian) Hockett and Brenda Lange all of Big Rapids, 7 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, his sister Norma Lange of Big Rapids, several nieces and nephews and his good friend, neighbor and chef, Stanley Szpiech. John was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Barbara and a brother, Don Lange. Funeral services will take place 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 2nd at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids with John's niece Sister Kathlyn Lange officiating. The family will greet friends on Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be at Highland View Cemetery in Big Rapids.