Photo courtesy of MacAlpine Funeral Home, Inc. - Mac Chapel - Bad Axe
Mar 9, 1940 - Mar 21, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. John and Ruth used to come to my ecumenical prayer group in Port Austin, and I was always impressed by his knowledge of the word and his deep faith. I lost touch with John and Ruth, but would always think of them whenever I was near Caseville. May he rest in peace, and Ruth, if you read this, I will be praying for you and remembering you and John fondly.
Bill Richart
May 18, 2025 | Highland, MI | Friend
Ruth and all the Depner family, you have been part of our lives as long as I can remember. We thank you for all the kindness you have shown our family. We think of you often and pray for peace as you mourn John’s passing.
Ray and Debbie Garcia
March 30, 2025 | Auburn, MI | Family
So sorry to hear this, Our thoughts and prayers are with All of you. Love , Lauria families (Margarey Hill Lauria)
Diane & Duane Lauria
March 28, 2025 | Whittemore, MI | Family
John was best friend at Elkton High. So sorry for your loss.
Duane Naffien
March 26, 2025 | Bay City, MI
Uncle John has left me and my family with lots of amazing memories at the farm and family gatherings . He definitely showed us his love for the lord and sharing it with me and my family . He loved his family and farming life and enjoyed sharing his hobbies to all those who stopped over . I will miss his smile and friendly ways even in his last years with us . Blessed to call him my uncle . Love and prayers to Aunt Ruth , Dan and Eric
Michelle Erla
March 25, 2025 | Cass City, MI | Family
John was a very good person. He will be missed a lot. Taught us many things through a great conversation. Loved writing old fashioned letters and sending them in the mail. His letters along with his wife Ruth very knowledgeable also. May God bless you all as he does everyday. Love you all Chuck and Karen Hill
Chuck and Karen Hill
March 25, 2025 | Six Lakes, MI | Friend
Ruth, So sorry to hear of John’s passing. Sending hugs and prayers your way.
Kathy and Lee Kilbourn
March 25, 2025 | Auburn, MI | Family
Dear Ruth, Dan and Eric,
I am very sorry for your loss.
I am praying for God to soften the sadness and bring you peace.
Pat Anderson
March 25, 2025 | Pigeon, MI | Friend
John A. Depner, age 85 of Caseville, was called from this life on March 21st, 2025, at Covenant Hospital, Saginaw, MI.
John was born on March 9, 1940, in Bad Axe, MI to the late John and Mary (Pelant) Depner.
He attended both Elkton Elementary and Berne Lutheran Schools. In 1958 John completed his high school education at Michigan Lutheran Seminary of Saginaw, MI, then later studied agriculture at M.S.U.
On October 9, 1965 John was united in marriage to Ruth C. Yackle at First United Methodist of Pigeon.
John was a farmer and gardener all his life who found much enjoyment in tending fields, growing vegetables, and sharing fresh produce with many. It was not uncommon for John to return from the field with a unique stone or an Indian arrowhead in his hand. In later years John planted a Christmas tree lot and found pleasure in giving hayrides during the fall corn mazes on his farm.
Of utmost importance was John’s Christian faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was not afraid to speak truth in love without compromising his beliefs. Whenever there was opportunity, he was ready to hand someone a New Testament which were many.
As a lifetime learner of many subjects, John was always asking questions; however, it was history that he found most fascinating, including family ancestry. On a trip, he found it difficult to pass by a museum without stopping.
Recently, John still enjoyed watching episodes of The Lone Ranger, reminiscent of his younger years. His boyhood hero was Roy Rogers, “King of the Cowboys”. When Roy and his horse Trigger came to town, John was eager to go and bring home a piece of straw from Triggers stable as a souvenir!
John was a devoted husband, loving father and leader of his home who set an example for his two sons as a hardworking man of faith and integrity. His word was his bond. John was an encourager and a ready helper, never too busy to stop his work to meet the needs of others. He was authentic, patient, humble and wise all rolled into one.
Survivors include wife, Ruth; two sons, Eric (Charlene) of Howard City, MI and Daniel of Caseville; sisters, Alaine (Todd Beck) Depner of Bangor, MI, Ivoughn Depner of Caseville, one brother, Michael of Fort Meyers, FL, and niece, Chelsea Depner of Caseville. John also had a younger brother, Gary, who died at the age of 10.
A private memorial service will be held with burial at the Caseville Township Cemetery.
Memorials may be given to Huron County Gideons, P.O. Box 31, Pigeon, MI. 48755 or Caseville Historical Society, 6733 Prospect, Caseville, MI 48725. Condolences can be shared at www.macalpinefuneralhome.com
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