John Joseph Bibbler

John “J” Joseph Bibbler, beloved son, cherished brother, adored grandson, spirited uncle and godson, and loyal friend and cousin died on Friday, August 19, 2022, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, surrounded by his loving family. A proud graduate of Western Michigan University, he double majored in environmental studies and natural resource management. J loved nature and cared deeply about the conservation of the planet. He went on to work in the culinary arts and was an accomplished chef. He was a bright light and his life reflected grace and beauty in the face of chronic health challenges. J exemplified a creative spirit and a beautiful heart and soul. He lived with his best friend, Ru (named after his favorite poet philosopher, Rumi) in the Grand Castle apartment community in Grandville, Michigan. J and Ru enjoyed time together in the complex’s dog park, walking on the trails adorned with wildflowers and benches to sit and read or write poetry, review NFL, NBA, and other sports updates, or meditate about love and life. J regularly led and contributed to online groups that celebrated music and socialization, played guitar, and wrote songs and poems that promoted a more compassionate world. J is survived by his mother and father, Lisa and John Bibbler; sister, Jenny (Bibbler) and Jonny Abendano; niece, Luna; nephew, Lucas; brother, James Bibbler, grandmother, Jane Bibbler; aunts, Kathy Reno, Lynn Pellerito (godmother), Barbara Pellerito, and Julie Pellerito; uncles, Paul Pellerito, Joseph Pellerito Jr. (godfather), and Chris Pellerito; many cousins and friends; and his faithful dog, Ru. He was preceded in his transition by his grandfathers, Dick Bibbler, and Joe Pellerito Sr.; grandmother, Janet Pellerito; and uncles, Dan Reno, and Andy Prakken. A memorial service to celebrate John Joseph Bibbler’s life will be held on Friday, August 26, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW. Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday, August 25, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and Friday from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to The Humane Society of West Michigan.