Juan 'Johnny' Ponce

HURLEY, Wis. - Juan "Johnny" Ponce, of South Carey, completed his earthly journey on Tuesday, July 14, 2015, in his home.

Juan was born on Jan. 16, 1931, in the small village of Arecibo on the island of Puerto Rico. At the age of 19, Juan left his home and family to begin a new life in Waukegan, Ill., working and eventually getting the rest of his family with him.

As a young boy, he said his bride-to-be was in the states. In 1960, Diane Wicklund became his bride of more than 50 years.

Surviving are his loving wife, Diane; a brother, Jose (Carla), of Kenosha; three sisters, Josepha and Gladys, both of Illinois, Lydia (Pablito), of Puerto Rico; a brother and sister-in-law, Sonny and Janice; numerous nieces and nephews; and other family members. Juan was Godfather to eight children.

He was the Patriarch of his family, touching many lives.

Juan's Momita and Papito, two sisters, Pilar and Carmen, a nephew, Eli, two infant siblings and other relatives passed on before him.

He was drafted in the U.S. Army, 5th Armored Division during the Korean War in Babenhausen, Germany, receiving an honorable discharge in 1955.

Juan served on various boards: Bayfield Electric Cooperative, Town of Carey, Iron Birds Flying Club and was vice-president of United Automobile Workers at General Motors foundry, Waukegan.

For 32 years, he was a powerhouse engineer in Waukegan and Janesville, retiring in 1983.

Juan and Diane finally enjoyed the country life. He took pleasure flying an ultralight aircraft and participating in five Palvo Nurmi marathons.

Juan was faithful in showing up for morning coffee meetings at Rigoni's Bakery with his special friends, solving the world problems.

A celebration of Juan's life will be held Saturday, July 18, at 11 a.m., preceded by visitation at 10 a.m., at Good Shepherd Apostolic Lutheran Church, Center Drive, Hurley, with the Revs. Norman Kangas and Steve Estola officiating.

Interment will take place at Hurley Cemetery, with a military graveside service under the auspices of combined Hurley American Legion Post 58 and Iron County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1580 Honor Guard.

Lunch will be served in the church fellowship hall following the cemetery service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Jerald Rocco, owner-manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, Mich. Condolences may be sent online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.