Deacon John Albert Moeggenberg, 91, of Shepherd, Midland, Traverse City, Cedar and Lakeland, passed away on June 6. While he will be missed, his legacy of helping to build the Kingdom of God remains.

Deacon Moeggenberg’s life was full, charismatic and accomplished. Born in 1932 as the ninth of 13 children, he was deeply rooted in his family life. He married Marjorie Jean Norris on Feb. 27, 1960, and they had five children: Timothy John, Daniel Joseph, Marc James, Carla Jean and Ronald Jerome. Over time, his family expanded to include four daughters-in-law, one son-in-law and 13 grandchildren. In his later years, he lived with his youngest son, Ron, and was cared for by Ron’s fiancée, Stacey Popp.

John's commitment to the Catholic Church was a defining aspect of his life. After being ordained a deacon on March 12, 1978, he served the Diocese of Gaylord at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Traverse City for 15 years. He was then named the pastoral administrator of Holy Rosary Parish in Isadore, where he served for nine years.

John transitioned from running his clothing store, Moeggenberg’s Men’s and Boys’ Wear, which he started in Midland in 1959, to other ventures, including owning a golf course.

He later enjoyed retirement, splitting time between Michigan and Florida, where he participated in local activities like shuffleboard. In retirement, he cherished traveling in his motor home, spending summers on the family farm and winters in Florida enjoying activities and gatherings with friends and family.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on June 13 at St. Vincent DePaul Parish.

May Deacon Moeggenberg rest in eternal peace.