John Stocki

John Stocki, age 67, passed away with his beloved wife and granddaughter by his side on Monday, December 9th, 2024 at the Singing River Hospital in Gulfport, Mississippi, after a short and difficult battle with cancer.  

He was born on Tuesday, September 3rd, 1957 in East Detroit, MI to Sandra and John Stocki.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Gail,  and brother Frank.  He is survived by his loving wife Bonnie Smith Stocki, daughter Julia Taylor, sisters Judy (Dean) Thompson, Gerry (Denis) Stephens, Barb Hamm, sister-in-law Elizabeth Egbert, and grandchildren Chloe, Oliver, and Marti, who were a source of immense pride and joy.

John's life was marked by his dedication to the Lord in 2007, his family, and career.  He owned and operated MaGee's Services for over 30 years.  His love for restoring and repairing antique cars, trucks, and motorcycles kept him appreciating the past and looking toward the future.  John was known to take pineapples, bananas, or a firm handshake as payment when someone was down on their luck.  His friendly demeanor and unwavering work ethic made a lasting impression on his community.  He worked from dawn to dusk. His greatest restoration was a 1952 low-rider truck that he lovingly named Tecum.

John cherished the simple joys of life, like riding his Harley and caring for the rescued animals Bonnie brought home.  He was a hobby farmer and loved animals.  He especially loved his dogs Susie, Pepper, and Furgus and cats Midgepot and Leonard.  This allowed him the opportunity to embrace the outdoors.  Every morning you could find John and Bonnie sitting on the porch sharing their dreams and goals for the day.  Many stories were told and retold on that porch with family and friends. 

John stayed connected to West Branch by family and many friends. He made trips to West Branch to fish and reconnect as often as he could.  His life was marked by love, commitment,  and profound connections with those around him.  He will be deeply missed, and his memory will live on in the stories shared and in the hearts of his family and friends.

A cremation has taken place.  A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.