NORTHPORT – It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our loving mother, Charlene JoAnn John, 77, of Northport who passed away on Wednesday, February 25th, 2026, surrounded by her loving family at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City.

Charlene was born on August 29th, 1948, in Northport, the daughter of Rocque and Cecelia Wonegeshik. Charlene lived in several cities in Michigan before settling in Northport and marrying Allen J. John Sr. Charlene started a long career as a medical transcriptionist for the former Leelanau Memorial Hospital in Northport. Working for the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians Health Clinical as a medical records keeper until her retirement.

She loved to attend camp meetings and travel with her family and friends. She had an adventurous side, she enjoyed hot air balloon riding, sky walks in Boyne and Gatlinburg, Ziplining and Skydiving in Charlevoix, exploring Mammoth Cave and hiking just about anything that was a challenge. When not traveling she would sew quilts. Her greatest joy was time spent with her children and grandkids, and her niece, Kim.

Charlene is survived by her children, Allen (Lisa) John Jr., Bruce (Samantha) John, and Angeline John; 18 grandkids and 20 greatgrandkids. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Allen J. John Sr., her siblings. Bertha, Amelia, Jim, Robert, David, Shirley, and Margaret, and her son, John N. John.

The visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 5th at the Martinson Funeral Home in Suttons Bay.

The service will be held at 2 p.m. with the family greeting friends at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 6th at Northport Indian Mission Church. Pastor Sam McClellan will officiate. Burial in the Leelanau Township Cemetery will take place in the spring.

Please share condolences and memories with Charlene’s family at www.martinson. info.

Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.