John A. Botting, Jr., age  68, of Hudsonville, was called to his heavenly home on Wednesday, May 1, 2019. He was preceded in death by his parents, John A., Sr. and Leona Botting.  He will be lovingly remembered by his children; Crystal (Jabbar) Mayhue, Melissa (Tim) McConnell, Andrew (Katrina) Botting, Justin (Lara) Botting; grandchildren; Victoria, Austin, Lily, Beau, Rosalinda, Kendrick, Brayden, and a soon to be born grandchild; siblings, Audrey “Stevie” Watson, JoAnn (Wim) Van Vugt, Judie Karrip, Jim Botting, Lori (John) Schout, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  John valiantly served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War.  John was a devoted father and grandfather who cherished spending time with his children playing basketball, fishing, camping and spoiling the grandkids.  He was a hard working finish carpenter who was proud of his work on Bridgewater Place and later retired from Herman Miller.  He was dedicated to celebrating each child’s and grandchild’s birthday by taking them to the restaurant of their choice.  When they had child care in their home, John became known as “Papa John”.  He loved NASCAR, muscle cars, listening to classic rock and blues and was an active member of the Michigan Recumbent Trikes.  A funeral service will be held on Sunday, May 5, 2019 at  3:00 pm  at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Wyoming) 4031 Clyde Park Ave. SW with Pastor Dennis Gilbert officiating.  Interment Fort Custer National Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family from 1:00 to 2:45 pm at the funeral home prior to the service.  Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.