John Anthony Kahl Jr.

1977 - 2025

John Anthony Kahl Jr. was born April 15, 1977, to parents John and Renee Kahl in Escanaba, Michigan. He married his wife, Caresse Joy Kahl (Day), on March 29, 2003, and together they raised two children, Logan Anthony Kahl (22) and Madison Paige Kahl (18). In 2013, the family moved to Montague, Michigan, allowing John to be closer to his work with Asplundh Electrical Testing (formerly American Electrical Testing).

John passed away at the age of 48 on December 25, 2025, at Trinity Hospital in Muskegon, Michigan. After returning home for the holidays following five weeks of running projects for his company, John suffered an unexpected and unexplainable cardiac arrest. He fought bravely in the ICU before transitioning to hospice, where he passed peacefully, surrounded by love.

John began working at a young age while still in school. His early work included Holton electronics, the Pit Stop Quick Lube in Escanaba, followed by Engineered Machine Products of Escanaba. Being a driven and determined man, John returned to school and graduated from Northern Michigan University with high honors. He went on to establish a long and successful career with Asplundh Electrical Testing, where he was known for his exceptional talent, intelligence, work ethic, and professionalism. John truly loved his job and valued the friendships he formed with colleagues throughout his career.

Above all, John was a devoted husband, father, son, and brother. He was immensely proud of his children and deeply committed to his family. He is survived by his wife, Caresse; his children, Logan and Madison; and his siblings, Stacy (Luke) Simon, Chelsea Kahl (Matt), and Casey Kahl; as well as his parents, John and Renee Kahl. He is also survived by many aunts and uncles, including Kim Gylock, Brenda (Bill) Schilz, Lisa (Colin) Grose, and Mark (Susie) Clark; many nieces and nephews; Godchildren, along with numerous cousins, extended family members, and many dear friends.

John loved life with passion and curiosity. He enjoyed bodybuilding, restoring and finishing his cherished 1967 Chevrolet Camaro, and spending time at the casino enjoying the atmosphere and the odds. He had a gift for storytelling and was known for sharing memories, offering advice, and giving generously of his time and heart. John loved music, especially listening to his favorites (Metallica) and playing the guitar. He took pride in maintaining a beautiful lawn, was always working on a new project, hosting barbecues, and treasured the time he spent with his family.

John had a huge heart and a presence that will be deeply missed by all who knew him. On Christmas night, after celebrating his favorite holiday with his family, God gently called John home, gaining an angel while he was wrapped in the love of those closest to him. He passed peacefully with his wife by his side, a moment marked by faith, love, and God's eternal promise. John leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to his family. This coming Fourth of July would have marked 25 years since John and Caresse first met; a testament to a life rooted in love, partnership, devotion, and God's grace.

Funeral services for John will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, 413 S Mears Ave, Whitehall, MI 49461. Interment will immediately follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, 3306 W Webster Rd, Montague, MI 49437. A celebration of life will be held after the interment at 5245 Jackson Ct Montague, MI, 48437, where family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor John's life.

In memory of John contributions may be made to God's Garage in Whitehall, to the Evangelical Covenant Church (ECC) Whitehall, MI. 900 Warner St, Whitehall, Michigan. They provide auto repair assistance for those in need.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. www.beaconfh.com