John Robert Aylward

On December  31, 2021, John Robert Aylward of Ridgeway Township, passed away unexpectedly. He was 73 years old.

John is survived by his wife Susan; their children, Lesley (Russ) Dempsey, and John (Erika) Aylward; five grandchildren who loved him dearly, Alec (Jennifer) Carson, Megan Carson, Gina (Dan) Jenks, Julia Aylward, and Jamie Aylward; and two great-grandchildren, Henry Aylward and Zoe Mae Carson. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Norma Aylward, and his brother, William Aylward. 

John was born on June 14, 1948 in Freeport, N.Y. He spent his career working in telecommunications, working for Michigan Bell, the City of Ann Arbor, and eventually starting his own company, Aylward Communications, where he had the pleasure of serving many Lenawee County residents. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Britton American Legion. He also served in the Navy Reserve.  

John married the love of his life, Susan Eddinger, on July 28, 1967. They had two children, Lesley and John (Bill). John loved spending time with his grandchildren and had a very special bond with each one of them. He was good at many things but was the best at creating lifelong memories in a very unique way. He had many interests and hobbies over his lifetime but most recently enjoyed beekeeping and working in his garden and orchard.

At John’s request, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to J. Gilbert Purse Funeral Home, Tecumseh. Condolences and memories to the family may be made at pursefuneralhome.com.