Surrounded by loved ones, John Peter Horowski of Holland left this earth peacefully on July 19, 2026. He was a beloved and treasured husband, father, grandfather and friend. Born in Ludington to his parents Joseph and Myrtle Horowski, he was a graduate of Ludington High School, where he met and later married the love of his life, Joyce (Petersen), his wife of nearly 61 years.
John was a gift to those who were fortunate enough to have him in their lives. His gifts of time and heartfelt enthusiasm were always evident as he cheered for both his children and grandchildren as they participated in countless athletic and music events. He even tried his hand at coaching softball, with “thumbs up” reviews. Family members, friends and even an occasional person standing in a checkout line behind him or at a nearby restaurant table had brighter days because John’s gift of humor produced belly laughs, smiles and–yes–even a rolling of eyes from an occasional “dad joke.” His gifts of love and support made a difference in the lives of many.
John both worked and played with enthusiasm. Despite the fact that he did not have an engineering degree, his skills as a draftsman led him to be a valued employee of a number of Grand Rapids area businesses during his work life. A happy and successful longtime bowler, John participated on teams in several leagues, traveled throughout the country to compete in annual ABC (now USBC) tournaments, and celebrated his own two perfect 300’s. In addition to knocking down pins, he enjoyed golfing and even managed to achieve the elusive hole-in-one. The leisure time moments he savored most, however, were those with family and close friends, whether planned or spontaneous. While John is missed, he, his gifts, and zest for life live on in all who knew him.
John is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce; his treasured daughter Marnie (Bob) Walski; his cherished grandchildren Ben and Erin Walski; his Danish exchange student daughter Mette Vagner Johannesen: his sisters Sally New of Kentucky and Joanne
Shepherd of Grand Rapids; niece Renee (Jeff) Hammit and nephew Greg (Dawn) New; four great-nieces; a great-nephew; several cousins and many dear friends. In addition to
his parents, he was preceded in death by his son Michael.
Family members wish to express their gratitude for the exceptional staff at both Resthaven Care Center and Hospice of Holland for their outstanding support of John in recent months. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Resthaven Care Center(resthaven.org) or Hospice of Holland (hollandhospice.org).
Visitation will be held on July 28, 2026, at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James Street in Holland from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, with a celebration of life immediately following.
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