John Shaw Zilke

John Shaw Zilke, 62, of St. Joseph passed away on Sunday, January 15, 2023 at his home.  

A memorial service will be held at 11:30 AM on Friday, January 20, 2023 at Pike Funeral and Cremation Services, The Boyd Chapel, 9191 Red Arrow Hwy, Bridgman. Friends may meet with the family from 10:30 – 11:30 AM at the funeral home, prior to the service. Memorials may be made to the Save the Manatee, 533 Versailles Drive Suite 100, Maitland, FL 32751 or Water Street Glass Works, https://waterstreetglassworks.org/products/support-water-street-glassworks. Online condolences accepted at www.PikeFH.com

John was born October 29, 1960 in St. Joseph, the son of David and Elizabeth (Tym) Zilke. John grew up in Bridgman, graduating from Bridgman High School and Lake Michigan College. He worked as a radiation protection technician and IT architect at American Electric Power for more than 30 years.

John was an incredibly talented musician and wood worker in his free time. He was passionate about helping his family, friends, and really anyone who needed it. He will be remembered by his loved ones for his generosity, humor, kindness, and devotion to service.

Survivors include his son: Eli (Emily Hojara) Zilke and his mother, Jan; granddaughter: Flora Zilke; mother: Elizabeth Zilke; father: David (Christiana) Zilke; sister: Nancy Seldomridge and her son: Michael (Young Hee) Kreps; brother: David (Ava) Zilke and their daughter Avalyn (Nathan) Spragg.