John E. Hedges

John Hedges, age 70, passed away on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born September 3, 1955, in Birmingham, Michigan, to George and Gloria (Mudd) Hedges.

John spent more than 40 years at Ford Motor Company, working as an engineer and later in management. But anyone who knew him knew that being an engineer wasn't something he left at work. His mind was always working - researching, problem-solving, figuring out how something worked, or finding a better way to do it. He loved cars and could often be found tinkering with his 1989 Mustang. He also enjoyed tackling projects around the house and was always willing to lend a hand when someone needed help.

His love of the outdoors began during his years in Scouting, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and stayed with him throughout his life. He loved boating, golfing, hunting, skiing, and exploring new places, and he shared those passions with his children and grandchildren. Northern Michigan held a special place in his heart, and he eventually built a home near the family's beloved cottage, where he could spend his time enjoying one of the places he loved most.

John's greatest joy, though, was his family. He was always there to help, support, and spend time with the people he loved. He was especially playful and silly with his grandchildren, never too grown up to joke around, make them laugh, or join in the fun. He also had a well-known love of sweets, especially ice cream, and firmly believed there was always room for dessert.

John battled cancer for a long time, but he never let it define him. Through it all, he remained hopeful and positive and held onto the sense of humor that made him who he was. He cherished his time with family and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

John is survived by his wife of 23 years, Susan D. Hedges; his children, Jessica (Greg) Thorndike, Molly (Grant) Parsons, Michael (Erika) Vargo, and Valerie (David) White; his grandchildren, Anniston, Michael Barry, Lenny, Charlie, Frankie, Beatrice, Eleanor, Emmett, and Amelia; his siblings, Georgia Burgess, Katie (Richard) Rychlik, Dave (Linda) Hedges, Jim (Donna) Hedges, Bill (Ana) Hedges, Janet Hedges and Susan Hedges; his sibling in-laws, Kathy Johnson, Dick (Wendy) Rand, John (Susan R) Rand. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Gloria Hedges, brother, Patrick Hedges and brother in-law Bob Burgess.

He leaves behind a family who will miss his humor, his willingness to help, and, of course, his ability to find room for ice cream.

Per John's wishes cremation has taken place and there will be no service at this time.

Arrangements by K.E. Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs.