John Clair Birg

John Clair Birg, 74, of Rochester, Michigan, passed away on April 20, 2024, securing the best tee time in heaven. John was tenderly held hand in hand by his two children, with his devoted wife by his side, surrounded by his grandchildren, closest family, and friends, all guided by their priest as he was lovingly sent to heaven.
Born on May 11, 1949, in Detroit, John graduated from Nativity High School, where he met his beloved wife, Gerri. Together, they shared over fifty years of loving companionship, beginning as high school sweethearts.
Before retiring and becoming the cherished OPC bus driver, John had a successful career as an automotive executive, showcasing his leadership and dedication. Diagnosed with kidney cancer on Valentine's Day 2024, he faced his illness with courage and dignity. Over 67 days, his condition rapidly advanced, yet his resilient spirit was sustained by the love and prayers of his family and friends.
John's most cherished role was as 'Papa' to his grandchildren-Summers at Papa's pool were legendary, filled with joy, laughter, and the kind of precious memories that bind a family together. John was profoundly dedicated to his family, consistently placing their happiness above his own in every action and decision.
John also had a deep love for golf, a passion that extended beyond the game itself to the many friendships he formed on the greens. His time on the golf courses was not just about playing but about connecting with others and sharing joyful moments.
A beacon of optimism, John often reminded those around him that "everything happens for a reason," a philosophy that continues to guide his loved ones through their grief.
He is survived by his wife Gerri, his children John Frederick (Susan Norman) and Mary Christine, and his beloved grandchildren, John Dominic, Josephine Claire, Jenna Rose, Harper Christine, Chelsea, Abigail (Vincent), great granddaughter, Nora. Son of the late John and Mary Virginia, sister of Leslie (Robert.d) Piotrowski and Kathleen (Tony) Candella.
The Birg family is deeply grateful for the overwhelming support from the Rochester community and beyond.
A celebration of John's life will be on Saturday May 11, 2024 beginning with a funeral mass at St. Mary of the Hills Roman Catholic Church at 10:00am.
St. Mary of Hills Roman Catholic
2675 John R. Road Rochester Hills, MI 48307
(P) 248-853-5390
Immediately following the mass, the family is hosting a celebration to honor John for all who would like to join them. The celebration will begin at 12:00PM at:
Twin Lakes Golf & Swim Club
455 Twin Lakes Drive Oakland, MI 48363
(P) 248-650-4550
Friends and family are all welcome and will have the opportunity to reminisce on the many joys of John's life and to celebrate his heavenly birthday as John would be turning 75 on this day. All will be encouraged to share their fondest memories of John.
John's legacy of kindness, faith, and leadership will forever inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate his life and the countless ways he enriched ours.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to OPC Transportation/in Memory of John Birg, an organization John passionately supported in his later years.
OPC
650 Letica Dr. Rochester, MI 48307 https://opccenter.org/ways-to-give/ Or you may reach OPC by phone to make your tribute gift: In memory of John Birg (248) 659-1029| (248) 608-0251