John Francis Zaugra

John Francis Zaugra, age 82, of Spring Lake passed away Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, at The Leila and Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence. He was born July 5, 1941, in Waukegan, Illinois to John G. and Sylvia F. (Koncan) Zaugra. He married Susan "Sue" Mulloy on Aug. 19, 1967, in Waukegan. She preceded him in death on Dec. 15, 2007.

As a life-long believer in education, John earned a Master's Degree from Illinois State University, a Master's Degree from Roosevelt University in Chicago and his Doctorate Degree from the University of Montana. Later in his career, John served on the House of Delegates for The University of Montana.

John worked as a Counselor at Grand Valley State University for thirty-two years, retiring in 2012. He served at GVSU as President of Student Affairs, Editor of the GVSU Journal for eight years, and has the John Zaugra Writing Award, named after him. He authored two books on career development and was instrumental in educational programs for immigrants wanting to be citizens.

John contributed to the community by serving on the Grand Haven School Board from July 1999 to June 2007 and as a Kiwanis Club member. John was an avid golfer and enjoyed any spirited pickleball match with friends.

He is lovingly remembered by two sons, Christopher (Ellen) Zaugra M.D. and Mark (Teri) Zaugra of Portland, OR; five grandchildren: Oliver, Elliot and Emmett, Allison and Aaron; his sister, Arlene (Raymond) Gorski; his brother, Leroy (Cathy) Zaugra; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Arthur Zaugra.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in Waukegan, Illinois in July. Arrangements entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417.

Share memories with the family at their online guest book at www.sytsemafh.com.