John Boekhout

Boekhout, John 2/21/1927 - 3/15/2019 Kalamazoo, MI John Boekhout, 92, peacefully passed away on Friday, March 15, 2019 after a brief battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Wanda (Grauman) Boekhout, son Tom (Peggy) Boekhout, of Merritt Island, Florida, daughter Amy (Tim) Kilmartin, of Kalamazoo. Six grandchildren Amanda, Cody, Christina, Truman, Pete, John and four great grandchildren Nova, Scarlett, Vale and Minh. Also several nieces and nephews and many friends. He married the Love of his Life, Wanda in 1948 and for nearly 71 years they built a wonderful life for themselves and those whose lives they touched. John was an extremely talented musician, playing Saxophone and Clarinet. He began playing at age 12, he played in countless dance bands, marching bands, concert bands, for the USO during WW2, dixieland bands, and even with the Kalamazoo Symphony. He also worked in music stores and taught at the Kalamazoo Conservatory of Music. He began a career in Radio Sales at WKZO radio in 1954. All the while, playing in his own dance band, The Four Tones and raising a family with Wanda. John sang in the choir at the First United Methodist Church and with the The Kalamazoo Oratorio Society. He traveled the world, bringing his horn and music with him wherever he went. John loved his family, friends, cats, golf, key changes, the YMCA, Gun Lake, root beer, harmony, the City of Kalamazoo and making people happy with his music. Not necessarily in that order. John's work here is done and he has joined the best band of all. He received a call for a gig he couldn't refuse. The new band takes him to a wonderful place where he will be playing with the best musicians and a few donkeys. Great music is a guarantee along with laughter and love. John made a difference in the lives of many. Even now, through donation, he is at the Western Michigan University School of Medicine, helping future doctors and medical professionals. His smile, patience, warmth and love for Wanda, family and friends will be remembered. A celebration of John's life will be held at the First United Methodist Church, 212 S. Park Street, Kalamazoo, Saturday, April 6, 2019. Friends and family can meet at 10:00 am, the Memorial Service will begin at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, any donations can be made to the First United Methodist Church's Music Department.