Westland, Michigan, October 11, 2025
News Summary
John Douglas Rose, a veteran and dedicated member of the Westland community, passed away at 79. Known for his kindness and service, he played a pivotal role in local veteran organizations and was deeply involved in his church. A Celebration of Life service will honor his legacy of generosity.
Westland, Michigan – John Douglas Rose, a valued veteran and community pillar, passed away on September 13, 2025, at the age of 79. Rose, who was known for his generous spirit and dedication to his community, left behind a legacy of service and kindness.
Born on November 13, 1945, in Detroit, John was the son of Harold and Margaret Rose. The family moved to Westland, previously known as Nankin Township, in the early 1950s. He shared a close bond with his younger sister, Judith Kathryn, who survives him along with her husband Tom, nieces Kristen and Jamin, and several great-nieces and a great-nephew, among others.
Rose served in the Vietnam War from 1965 to 1966 as part of the U.S. Army’s Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division. His service led to active membership in various veteran organizations including the National Chapter of the 4th Infantry Division Association, the American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars, where he remained committed to supporting his fellow veterans.
Upon returning from military service, John embarked on a notable 46-year career with Ford Motor Company. He worked at the Wayne Assembly Plant and was a proud member of the United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 900. His contributions to the workforce made a significant impact, and he was respected by colleagues throughout his tenure.
Alongside his professional achievements, John was deeply involved with the Kirk of Our Savior Presbyterian Church in Westland. His volunteer work included ushering and caretaking, and he was an active participant in church activities, further exemplifying his commitment to community service.
John was also known for his hobbies, which included a passion for collecting sports memorabilia, coins, Western novels, and antique glassware. He particularly enjoyed traveling to college campuses and professional sports stadiums, where he collected souvenir cups and built lasting friendships within the collector community.
In addition to his sister Judith, Rose was preceded in death by his parents, Harold P. Rose in 1965 and Margaret L. Rose in 2019. He will be remembered for his kindness and his ability to connect with others, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life service is scheduled for November 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Kirk of Our Savior Presbyterian Church located at 36660 Cherry Hill Road, Westland. Following the service, a military honors ceremony will take place at a later date at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.
Memorial contributions in honor of John Rose can be made to Kirk of Our Savior, recognizing his unwavering generosity and service to the church and community. His legacy of kindness and dedication will continue to inspire those who remember him.
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- Vermeulen Funeral Home: Peggy Sokolowski
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Legacy: Gail Murray Obituary
- Google Search: Community obituaries
- Detroit News: Recent Obituaries
- Google Scholar: Obituaries and Community Impact
- Dignity Memorial: Clayton Westland
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Legacy: Terry Bellant Obituary
- Google News: Obituaries
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
