ISHPEMING, MI – John “Jack” Robinson Sr., age 85, of Ishpeming, passed away peacefully, at his home, on Sunday April 12, 2026.

Born in Ishpeming on June 12, 1940, to William and Frances (Bolduc) Robinson, Jack was the youngest of three boys - the baby of the family. He grew up alongside his two older brothers on the family farm in North Greenwood, where hard work was a daily expectation. The three brothers were inseparable, sharing both the responsibilities of farm life and more than a few adventures—occasionally even giving the local police officer a reason to stay on his toes.

Jack attended Ely Grade School and graduated from Ishpeming High School with the Class of 1958. Shortly after, he began working for Sawyer-Stoll in North Lake, a wood preserving company, marking the start of a long and dedicated working life.

After high school, Jack met the love of his life, Betty Rautio. Their story was one of true lifelong devotion beginning as childhood sweethearts. They were married in 1962 at St. John’s Church in Ishpeming and soon began raising their family in Ishpeming before building their first home on County Road CN in Greenwood Location.

In 1965, Jack began his career with CCI, dedicating 30 years to the mining industry before retiring in 1995. Those who knew him well might say that retirement didn’t slow him down—it gave him more time to work. In fact, some would joke he worked harder at home than he ever did on the job.

Jack spent countless hours volunteering at the AMVETS and helping at the club. He and Betty also shared a love for camping and travel, exploring the country together from Texas to Colorado in a variety of campers, trailers, and fifth wheels. It wasn’t uncommon for Jack to upgrade or completely change their camper several times in a single year, always chasing the next adventure.

He found joy in the outdoors, especially during family camping trips to Dishno Creek and Lake Beaufort, and in fishing excursions on Lake Superior, where he loved taking his children out on the water. He was also an avid deer and bird hunter.

Above all, Jack was a true tinkerer. Boats, tractors, cars—if it had an engine or moving parts, Jack was likely fixing it, improving it, or trading it. At times, his yard held a small fleet of boats in various stages of repair. If it wasn’t boats, it was tractors. Even when age and health made things more difficult, Jack never stopped working with his hands and would still find his way to the garage.

In retirement, Jack built another home in 1998 and continued his lifetime habit of staying busy from sunup to sundown. He was always ready to lend a hand, often showing up at his children’s homes not just to visit—but to help with whatever project needed doing.

Jack will be remembered as tough, resilient, and, at times, wonderfully stubborn. Despite numerous back and other surgeries, he faced every challenge head-on, rarely slowing down and never complaining. His strength was matched only by his deep love for his family and those close to him.

Jack leaves behind a family who will forever cherish his example of hard work, loyalty, and quiet generosity.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Betty; his children, Karen (Jerry) McLellan, John (Angela) Robinson Jr., Robin Pierce; grandchildren, John III (Toni), Jenn, Cody (Tessa), Justin (Mary); great-grandchildren, Leah, Dominic, Jayce, Jade, Elliana, Paxton, Nathan, Nora, and Nash; and various nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Frances Robinson; stepfather, Clarence LaFreniere; and his brothers, William and James Robinson; and his son-in-law, Alan Pierce.

Honoring Jack's wishes cremation will take place and no public services will be held.

A full obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com, where friends and relatives are invited to leave notes of remembrance.