John Rekeny, age 91 of Big Rapids, passed away Sunday, April 9, 2017. He was born May 25, 1925 at home in Paris, Michigan the son of Thomas and Pauline (Svetlak) Rekeny. John began his working career in the oil fields and later worked for Summerville Construction installing gas pipeline. In 1965 he established Rekeny Water and Sanitation, installing wells and septic systems throughout Michigan. He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Rekeny of Big Rapids; five children, Sandra (William) Gentile of Clinton Township, Christine (David) Birdsong of Battle Creek, John T. (Beth) Rekeny of Walker, Amy Rekeny of Kentwood, Patty "PJ" Rekeny of Kentwood; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; a brother, Tom (Bev) Rekeny of Grand Rapids; two sisters, Virginia "Ginny" Horgan of Big Rapids, Frances "Fran" Williams of Cadillac; many nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Nancy Rekeny; a grandson, Christopher Birdsong; a brother, Mike Rekeny and four sisters, Mary Parsons, Ann Harrison, Helene Otto and Pauline Hansen. A memorial service will take place 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 29, 2017 at St. Paul Campus Parish, 1 Damascus Road, Big Rapids with Father Michael Burt officiating. The family will greet friends one hour prior to services. Memorial contributions in Johns name may be made to the National Rifle Association. Share a memory or leave a condolence for the family by clicking our guestbook tab at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Memorial Mass Saturday, April 29, 2017 11:00 AM St. Paul Campus Parish 1 Damascus Big Rapids,MI 49307