John B. Rome

John Bruce Rome, age 82, of Vicksburg, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, July 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on October 6, 1943, in Battle Creek, Michigan, the son of John T. and Olive Frances (Heywood) Rome.

John was an only child and spent his childhood in Battle Creek, where he graduated from Battle Creek Central High School with the Class of 1962. Known for his outgoing personality and love of spending time with friends, he proudly answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force in 1964. He served honorably until 1968, attaining the rank of Sergeant (E-4).

John was first united in marriage to Cindy Allen of Battle Creek. Together they welcomed their daughter, Michelle, in 1973. Following Cindy's passing in 1975, John later married Kathy in 1980, and together they welcomed their daughter, Catrina, in 1984.

Following his military service, John pursued additional education, completed coursework in information technology, and earned his real estate license. He spent 26 years working at the Federal Center in Battle Creek before retiring. Throughout his life, John also called Marshall, Michigan; Monticello, Kentucky; and Vicksburg, Michigan home.

John had a wide variety of interests that kept him active throughout his life. He enjoyed photography and calligraphy and spent many years participating in activities and events at Convis Union United Methodist Church alongside his wife, Kathy, and their daughters. His youngest daughter, Catrina, shared many of his hobbies throughout her life. Whether riding bikes, collecting model trains, or encouraging his passion for calligraphy, she cherished the time they spent together and the memories they created. In later years, John developed a passion for collecting firearms with his daughter, Michelle. Together they enjoyed building a shooting range on their property, where they spent many hours practicing and enjoying each other’s company. John also had a lifelong love of bicycling and treasured many years of riding with his close friend, Keith Walbeck.

Above all, John cherished the relationships he built with family and friends. He loved spending time with his daughters and held a special place in his heart for the many nieces and nephews on his wife Kathy's side of the family.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Michelle (Jody Plankenhorn) Rome and Catrina Rome; his daughter in all but blood, Sarah Boehmer; his beloved grand-pets; and cherished great-grandchildren, August Lawwill, Ciarah Gund, Berlynn Harris, and Jayce Means; many cherished nieces and nephews; and his dear friends, Tony Esparaza, Keith Walbeck, Jack Boddy, Andy and Lynn King, and Ken Hopkins.

In accordance with John's wishes, cremation has taken place.

John will be remembered for his love of family, his devotion to his country, his adventurous spirit, and the friendships he nurtured throughout a life well lived.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign John's guestbook and/or share a memory with his family.

The Rome family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097. 269-649-1697.