John C. Boucher

John Craig Boucher passed away on 18 June 2024 in Indianapolis, IN. Born on 13 Oct 1939, John’s life was marked by his artistry, generosity, mentorship, and precision. John was loved both for (and sometimes despite!) his sense of humor and singularities.

After college at University of Michigan, John proudly served in the US Army during the Vietnam Era as a photography instructor. John went on to open his own photography agency in Grand Rapids, MI, with clients that included Amway, Steelcase, and Herman Miller. In the pre-photoshop era, his skill set was unique and in demand, and his work was respected and award winning. He worked hard but claimed that by pursuing his passion he never worked a day in his life. His appreciation for music was well-known, especially his love of early rock and roll, bluegrass, and the blues. With an excellent bass singing voice and his ability to play the guitar, he was part of a band in college. In later years he reserved his skills for family gatherings, open mic nights, and embarrassing his daughter in restaurants.

He spent much of his life near waterways, from a home on the Grand River, to a sailboat in the Caribbean, to an island home on Lake Michigan. Had he recovered sufficiently, a cruise would have been in his near future.

An accomplished handyman, John extensively remodeled every home he purchased, even when he said he wouldn’t.

John took great pleasure from following the work of contemporary artists, being active in the Grand Rapids arts community, learning about scientific and engineering topics, reading science fiction, and watching B-grade movies or any movies with great special effects. He also loved spending time with his daughter and son-in-law (and their dogs).

John is preceded in death by his parents Rev. Dr. Morris R. and Mrs. Lois (Spearman) Boucher, and his brother Morris R. Boucher. He is survived by his daughter Tacey Boucher, son-in-law Robert Maple, sister-in-law Mary Ann Boucher, nephews John Morris Boucher and James Boucher, and his great-nieces.

A Celebration of John's Life will be held at a later date.

Please visit www.orileybranson.com to leave a message or favorite memory of John.

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  1. So very sorry to hear of Johns passing.I will miss him…such a wonderful person. From many a conversation at The Grapevine to many more on Beaver Island where I would see him more often. My heart goes out to his family. Rest in Peace John, you were one of the good ones.

  2. All that knew him will miss him I had many interactions with him his love for wood and making things and Monday night dinners many conversations like Rick Powell said will never forget us rest in peace John you deserve it. See ya sooner than later. Daryl weaver

  3. Tacey I am so sorry for your loss. John was a talented and good person. I am happy he was able to live near you these past few years. You meant the world to him and he was so proud of you. My sincerest condolences. Carol
    Aram

  4. John and I became friends when I tended bar at the Pickwick. He could be funny and gentle as much as crotchety. One Christmas he, Peter Sensor and myself were alone. We got together at my place to celebrate the holiday and made a great meal together. Friends of each of us were invited to join us that evening when everyone’s festivities were over. So many people showed up. I met so many new people that night some of which became lifelong friendships. I was very fond of John and valued our friendship. RIP

  5. I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. I never knew he had a place on Beaver Island. We have property on Donegal Bay. I worked with John when I was at Meridian/Herman Miller. In fact we did a photo shoot that I am, it took all day to get it right but John was so kind and a genius behind the lens. I remember him completely turning off all the lights in the room and leaving the shutter open, he painted the flowers and other objects he wanted to highlight with light, it was so cool to see the whole process. I wish we could have met up on the island. RIP John and to the family I am sorry for your loss.


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