John Alfred Afton, 69, of Big Rapids, passed away Friday, November 19, 2021, at his residence.

He was born April 4, 1952, in Montcalm Co., the son of Richard and Helen (Doxtater) Afton. John grew up in Big Rapids and graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1970.  For many years, he worked as a tool & die maker for ITW Drawform in Zeeland until retiring.  In his younger years, John loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and family camping trips.  He also enjoyed restoring classic cars, especially his ‘68 LeMans.

John is survived by his daughters, Carrie Hildenbrand of Kalamazoo and Erin Afton of Grand Rapids; six grandchildren, Nicole, Danielle, Meghan, Seamus, Erik, and Shonny; three great grandchildren, Maison, Levi, and Nova; his siblings, Bill (Jackie) Bird of Muskegon, Edna (Bob) Sims of Pryor, OK, Richard Afton of Reed City, Betty Wright of Mecosta, and Paula (Kerry) Gould of Traverse City; sisters-in-law Wanda and Pam Afton; special niece and nephew Jessica Barrera and Anthony Afton; and many more nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Freda Grimes, brothers Tom and Tony Afton, son-in-law Tony Ball, and nephew Tommy Afton.

A Celebration of John’s life will be held from 2-4 p.m., Wednesday, December 1, 2021, at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Memorial contributions in his name may be made for the Mecosta County Commission on Aging. Share a memory or express condolences at www.mohnkefuneralhome.com.