John Michael Mahan

John Michael Mahan passed away September 9, 2020 with his children by his side.  John was born on June 11, 1952 in Charlotte Michigan to Earl and Roberta (Matthews) Mahan.

John was a three-sport athlete at Charlotte High School and a star running back at Grand Valley State University where he broke several rushing records and was inducted into their sports Hall of Fame.

He graduated with a Masters in Teaching and taught Phys Ed until his retirement from Grand Rapids Public Schools.

He continued his love of sports after graduation by playing on community football and softball leagues as well as coaching and refereeing youth and high school teams.

John was a good friend, the best man at many weddings.  He loved music, dancing and telling a bawdy story. He added zest to any gathering and will truly be missed.

He is survived by his sister Gerry (Jack) Holbrok, brother-in-law Robert Crosslan and his children, Melissa (Brandon) Pitsch and Kyle (Ashley) Mahan and his many grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

John was predeceased by his parents and his sister Julia Crossland and his best friend Stephen Peterson. 

A celebration of life will be planned for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a gift may be made in his memory by one of two ways:

Donate to the Boston University Research CTE Center to support the understanding of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and help promote public awareness.  Give online by credit card to BU CTE Center or write a check to the “Trustees of Boston University” with “BU CTE Center” in the memo line and mail it to Boston University School of Medicine, Office of Development, 72 East Concord Street L-219, Boston, MA 02118

Donate to the GVSU Irwin Athletic Club to support the scholarship needs of student athletes.  Give online by credit card to https://www.gvsu.edu/giving/give-online2.htm?fundId=90730, send a check to GVSU Athletics, Irwin Club, 1 Campus Drive, Allendale, MI 49401 or call to pay by credit card  616-331-2557

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