John F. Bradke

John Franklin Bradke, 72, of Cassopolis, died peacefully Wednesday, May 24, 2023, in the comfort of his family’s presence.

His life began April 21, 1951 in Garden City, Michigan, the oldest of six children born to James and Dorothy Bradke, Sr.  He married Rebecca Lynn Caldwell May 8, 2023 in Cassopolis, Michigan. 

John taught for many years in the Cassopolis Public Schools.  He will long be remembered as a being a wonderful man who knew “everybody” and was the “Best Papa Ever.”  He was a friend of nature who always said “teach peace” and “trust Jesus.”

John will be greatly missed by family and friends.  He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Caldwell of Cassopolis; step-sons, Robert (Jazmine) Kerr, Adam (Sarah) Kerr; step-grandchildren, Marisa Kerr, Aiden Kerr, Miles, Kerr, Ellie Kerr, Grace Kerr; two sisters, Kathryn Ferriby, Deborah Loveland; three brothers, Kenneth S. Bradke, James S. (Alison) Bradke, Jr., Joseph C. (Brenda) Bradke; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers-in-law, Robert E. Ferriby and Roger A. Loveland.  

The family will observe a private remembrance.

Celebrating the Life of John Bradke, Open House, Saturday July 15, 2023 from 2p.m. to 4p.m. at the Cassopolis VFW 131 South Broadway Street, Cassopolis, Michigan 49031.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Connelly Chapel, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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