John Henry Cotrel, Sr., 87, of White Pigeon, MI passed away on Sunday, March 2, 2025, after a brief stay at East Lake Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

John was born on November 11, 1937, in Peking, IL to the late Phillip Edward Cotrel Sr. and Leta M. (Waterson) Cotrel. He married the love of his life, Mary (Studebaker) Cotrel on February 13, 1960.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Philip and Lita; stepmother, Dorothy Cotrel and several brothers and sisters.

John is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary Cotrel; 3 sons, John Henry Cotrel, Brent Edward Cotrel and Travis Scott Cotrel; 6 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren and his brothers and sisters.

John retired as a supervisor at the MMPA (Michigan Milk Production Association). He was a skilled woodworker and home craftsman. John with his wife and friends enjoyed travelling around the country in his younger days. He was a very disciplined and dependable husband, father and coworker. John was able to forge great relationships with everyone he met.

There will be a celebration of John's life at a later date.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, IN 46514 is assisting the family.

For those that wish to send a condolence or share a memory may do so at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.