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John Chmiel Obituary
A traditional obituary seems out of place to honor John's life, because he was a non-traditional, one-in-a-million father, husband, grandpa ("PJ") and friend. If you were blessed enough in this life to know him, you understand the gift he was to this world. Ever the jokester, he brought light and laughter to nearly every situation-even throughout his own courageous battle with cancer.
Father to Zak (Julie) and Adam Chmiel, wife to Susan Jones, and "Papa John" to Joe, Kristi, Alex and Harper Van Wormer, he embraced life with integrity, humor, joy and adventure.
John served in the US Army as a Military Police Officer from 1971-1973 and was a 20+ year employee of Chrysler/Stellantis until his retirement. An avid runner for most of his life, he was very proud to have completed the Boston Marathon in 2003. He loved being outdoors-especially tending to his lawn and participating in his weekly golf league.
He had a servant's heart and lived these values as a parishioner and active member of Faith Covenant Church of Farmington Hills. His joy, smiles, jokes and warm greetings will be deeply missed by his parish community.
In lieu of flowers, please celebrate and honor John's life through a donation to the Karmanos Cancer Institute, American Thyroid Association or any cancer research organization.
Find the joy in life today to honor our dear John--simply take a walk (or run) outside, make a stranger laugh or offer someone a ride to the airport.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Ann Mumper
June 15, 2025
Rob and I met John for the first time when he came riding up on his bicycle... he was laughing and joking, and so nice. I knew that he would make a great husband for my best friend. You will be missed John XO
William Alan Dolezal
June 7, 2025
Miss ya John. Church service and activities and Tuesday golf were always better with you there. Will always be my Polska Brat. Kocham cie bracie Thoughts, prayers and hugs Susan
Lori Safford
June 7, 2025
I found another photo of John to share. He embraced life with ardent gusto and brought joy to every moment. Blessings to his family!
Lori Safford
June 7, 2025
I just learned of John´s passing. What a blessed person! My life was enriched from knowing John. He was a vibrant & loving presence in my sons´ lives as well. He was a very special man who loved and lived life to its fullest. Condolences to his wife, his sons, his family. He will be the life of any Heavenly Party!
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Frankie G
June 5, 2025
John has always been a true friend to me and DiDi. We have had a lot of laughter and good talks. I loved you like a brother. I am sure we will be reunited one day in the presence of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
We will always be here for you Susan, just a minute away
John Toth
June 5, 2025
Prayers go out Johns Family. There was never a dull moment working around John Chysler
Diane Grutta
June 4, 2025
I remember when John and Sue came up to our cottage. We had such a wonderful time. We
laughed a lot and had a few to many. John called
me DiDi, he loved to tease me. Then wait to see
how long it took me to figure out he was joking. He loved to joke. Don't take anything seriously.
Frank and I Truly loved his man. May you rest in
peace in the arms of our Lord Jesus Christ. We will see you again!
Doug King
June 4, 2025
John was truly a dear friend, actually more like a brother than a friend (We were both born in September, 1951) We had a lot of common interests, including Senior Fit at church, Euchre group, and most importantly our golf league which he and ran together. We kidded each other so much on the course that newcomers would wonder aloud "Do these guys even like each other"! It goes without saying that John was truly one of a kind. I am truly going to miss him.
Jack Nichols
June 3, 2025
We have great memories of John from the time he and Susan joined together. John we hope you are comfortable while waiting for the rest of us to join you in Heaven. Blessings to all!
Jack and Sue
Carol & Terry
June 3, 2025
We have such wonderful memories of John from joining us as a participant of our Shanghai La exercise group and adding humor to every class .But no one can forget him willing to be one of our most hysterical Calendar Girl! He was an amazing person and will be missed. Carol & Terry Micket
Cindy Tilden
June 3, 2025
As an only child, John missed out on having a sibling to pester him. We adopted each other early in our acquaintance. We were "Soul Siblings".
He pestered me and I gave it back as best I could. I had some practice, having two younger brothers and a younger sister. However, he was a "natural pesky brudda" and I was actually far disadvantaged.
My last comment to him was "I don´t know when I will see you next...but I know without a doubt..I will see you again!"
Looking forward to when we are reunited in another life. Peace to the memory of this wonderfully complicated and beloved man.
Kelly Brown
June 3, 2025
Sue, I'm sorry for your grief and loss and hope so many memories that you two enjoyed together will bring you comfort for a life well lived with a lot of Love. John was a generous, loving, and funny guy who was always up for an adventure, willing to help without hesitation and loved you deeply and truly as well as his entire family. He will be missed.
Frank & Diane
June 3, 2025
Sharon Morgulec
June 3, 2025
The best brother-in-law. Always ready with a joke or helping hand, mostly both at same time. He was so kind and loving, I miss him already. I know you are in Heaven with Tony saying "Now girls do you really want to do it that way?" My love and prayers. Sharon
Carol moser
June 3, 2025
Very nice man ,he was my neighbor and always joking around. He will e missed
Ken and Sharon wasmer
June 3, 2025
We are so sad to hear of John´s passing. He was a special man and so glad he and Susan found each other. May your memories give you all comfort as you celebrate his life.
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