TILDEN TOWNSHIP, MI – John Harold Wallace Jr., age 75, of Tilden Township, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at UP Health System – Marquette surrounded by his loving family.

Born on September 26, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, John was the son of John Sr. and Edna (Eaves) Wallace. He was raised in Chicago alongside his sister, Edna Fern, and graduated from Austin High School with the Class of 1968. During his school years, he was active in ROTC and even taught driver’s education. He also worked as a bellboy in several downtown Chicago hotels.

Following graduation, John proudly served in the United States Air Force as a jet engine mechanic. His service took him to Korat, Thailand, and later to Kincheloe Air Force Base in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. It was there he met the love of his life, Karen Maki. John would brave all kinds of weather to travel to see Karen any chance he could get. The two were married on June 16, 1973, at her grandparents’ home in National Mine, Michigan, and built a life centered on family, love, and shared adventures. They raised three children: John III, Michelle, and Michael. Together, John and Karen shared a love for travel and adventure. Taking their three children to all 50 states, seeing all the major sites.

After his honorable discharge, John pursued higher education at Northern Michigan University, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography. While attending NMU, he worked as an animal control officer for the City of Ishpeming, which led to him being recruited to the NMU police academy. John graduated from the police academy in 1975 and joined the Ishpeming Police Department, where he served with dedication until 2001.

In 1978, John founded Peninsula Photographics, beginning a parallel career that would span nearly five decades. He became a familiar and respected presence in the community and school systems, photographing local sports teams, school portraits, events, and also contributed his talents to The Mining Journal newspaper.

At age 40, John discovered a passion for running that became a defining part of his life. Alongside Karen, they completed more than 45 marathons across the country, including in Alaska and Hawaii. In 1989, John and his eldest son began a daily running streak that continued for 35 years. Only coming to an end when John was stricken by a stroke. One of his greatest accomplishments was a journey he and Karen undertook in July 2007 spanning until September, running from Marquette, Michigan, to Biloxi, Mississippi over the course of 82 days and nights, with 52 of those nights spent in a two-person tent. They pushed a cart with their belongings and met so many fabulous people along the way.

John was deeply committed to his community. He served as a police officer with the Ishpeming Police Department from 1975 – 2001, making many friendships along the way, and was especially grateful for his best friend, George Sibley. They continued to chat nearly every day. John served on the board of TruNorth Federal Credit Union for over 35 years, including as Board Chair, and remained active on the Tilden Township Planning and Zoning Board until his passing.

Above all, John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His kindness and unwavering love for his family will be remembered always. He will be deeply missed by all who loved and were blessed by him.

John is survived by his soulmate, Karen; their three children, John III (Heidi Geshel) and their sons Eli John and Aaron Cole of Eugene, OR, Michelle (Ashley Bissell) of Everett, WA, Michael and his son Preston Michael (mother Sara Dishno) of Ishpeming, MI; a niece, Amy (Paul) Witter of West Bend, WI; brother-in-law, Robert Maki; sisters-in-law, Evelyn Maki and Diane Maki; Buddy Russell who loved when grandpa came to play tug-of-war or catch snowballs; along with numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John Jr. and Edna (Eaves) Wallace; his sister, Edna Fern (Dennis Alexander); and his parents-in-law, Edith and Robert Maki.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date to be announced. Details will be forthcoming.

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