John L. Tolliver, 76, of Au Claire, Michigan, passed away on July 19, 2023 in St. Joseph, Michigan.  He was born on January 8, 1947 in Niles, Michigan to John William and Rose Marie (French) Tolliver.

He is survived by his daughter, Julie Dazell; a son, Josh Easter, his grandchildren, Austin Cook and Katelynn Dazell; a great-granddaughter, Aubrey Marie Cook; and a sister, Barbara Polly.

Also surviving is John's fiancée, Janice Zerfas.

He was preceded in death by a grandson, Brandon Cook, and a sister.  John was also preceded in death by his dog, Chloe, who was his faithful companion for 15 years and went everywhere with him.

John was a longtime member of Cass County Conservation Club.  He was very proud of having Blackfoot Indian ancestry and loved everything associated with his Native American Heritage.  He was an expert trout fisherman and bear hunter.  He was a master at tying fishing lures.  He was an expert ammunition re-loader and he also made his own ammo. He enjoyed shooting at the conservation club with his buddies. He loved animals- and even rescued opossums- Alfred being the most memorable.

He worked for many years as a tool and die maker and a welder.

As soon as he graduated from Brandywine High School, he joined the United States Navy.  He saw significant battle in Vietnam as a Crew Leader on the Mekong Delta.  He was also a member of the Michigan National Guard and a Native American Warrior.

He was extremely proud of having two Associate Degrees from South Western Michigan College- one being in Applied Physics- where he also studied Tool and Die making.

A Celebration Of Life will be announced at a later date.

Chapel Hill Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.