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John Thurston Sr.

September 8, 2017
Otsego, MI

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John H. Thurston Sr., age 88, of Otsego, MI went home to be with his Lord and Saviour on Friday, September 8, 2017 at Bronson Hospital, with his family by his side. He was born on May 6, 1929 in Kalamazoo, the firstborn of Ira and Lorraine (Sellers) Thurston. After graduating from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1948, he met the love of his life, Annabell Brackins. While she was visiting her brother, Oscar Lewis in Michigan, he introduced her to John. According to John, it was love at first sight. He fell in love immediately with her beautiful auburn hair. On June 18, 1949 John and Annabell were joined in marriage in a beautiful outdoor ceremony. The couple welcomed their first child, Patricia, in 1950. In 1952, God blessed them with another daughter, Sandra. In 1953, John and Annabell accepted Christ as their Saviour at the Covey Hill Baptist Church in Paw Paw, Michigan. His strong faith sustained him throughout his 88 years. He was an active member of the First Congregational Church of Otsego. His example as a Christian man will never be forgotten. He was the spiritual leader of his home, and his faith in God strengthened those around him. The legacy he leaves is this: Faith without limits, and hope without fear. In 1955, the growing family moved to Phoenix, Arizona. He designed and built two homes for his family. During the nearly ten years in Arizona, many special memories were made. They owned horses, which brought so much joy to the children. In 1962, his son John Thurston Jr. was born. The family returned to Michigan in 1964. They settled in Otsego in 1969. In 1972, John turned his hobby into a career, when he graduated from Hinkley Auctioneer School. He had a strong interest in antiques and the history surrounding products from days gone by. He always enjoyed talking about the history of how things were made and used, and how they differ from modern day products. He remained active as an auctioneer well into his late eighties. John had a passion for the outdoors, and was particularly fond of fishing. He also enjoyed hunting, gardening and spending time with family and friends. His humor could light up a room. John is survived by his wife, Annabell (Brackins) Thurston. Also surviving are his children, Patricia (Rodger) Bolen of Kalamazoo, Sandra Ambs of Parchment and John Thurston Jr. of Otsego; grandchildren, Kelly, Andy, Sarah, Laura, Crystal and Danielle; 8 great-grandchildren; brother James (Nadine) Thurston of Alabama. He was preceded in death by his parents and son-in-law, Roger Ambs. Friends may visit with John's family on Thursday, September 14, 2017 at the First Congregational Church of Otsego at 10:00 A.M. Funeral Service will begin at 11:00 A.M., with Pastor Darin Youngs officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Kalamazoo. Contributions in memory of John may be made to the First Congregation Church of Otsego. Winkel Funeral Home