John Charles Tapley

John C. Tapley

Bay City, Michigan

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend passed away on September 21, 2023 after a brief battle with cancer.  He was 76 years old.

John was born on March 9, 1947 in Halifax, Novia Scotia to the late Linwood and Helen (Shaw) Tapley.  The family later relocated to California.  He married Martha L. Bodwell on August 2, 1969; she survives him. John began his career as a teacher in Iowa, where he focused his passion on providing invaluable education to students with special needs.  However, his desire to serve others led him down a different path, one that ultimately saw him become a licensed funeral director.  In his role as a funeral director, John's jovial nature was a comforting presence for grieving families during their most challenging times.  John worked for several funeral homes in Michigan, between Utica, Bay City and Saginaw.  He began his career with W. L. Case and Company in September of 2003; retiring in January of 2016.  Always ready to lend a hand, John continued to help out W. L. Case and Company until August 2023.  John was an active member of Westminster Presbyterian Church and with the greater Presbytery.  He could always be found assisting with church services and outreach programs, especially the food pantry.  Outside of his professional pursuits, John found solace in nurturing his love for gardening. Specifically, he delighted in tending to his bountiful vegetable garden.  Family held an integral place in John's heart, and he cherished every moment spent with them. His infectious laughter, the twinkle in his eyes, and the countless stories he shared will forever echo through the memories of those fortunate enough to have known him.

Surviving are his wife of 54 years, Martha, and their three children: Suzanne (Steve) Klein, Christopher (Kari) Tapley, and Joshua Tapley, grandchildren: Megan, Ben, Daisy, Emilia, his sister-in-law Karen Mora, and many relatives and friends.  In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by brother James Tapley.

Funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. Monday, September 25, 2023 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 103 E. Midland St., Bay City.  Rev. Jamie Milton will officiate with cremation to follow.  Friends may visit with the family at the W. L. Case and Company Funeral Chapel, 4480 Mackinaw Rd. on Sunday from 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00 pm and on Monday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service.  Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider Westminster Presbyterian Church/Food Pantry.

www.casefuneralhome.com