Jack F. Rahn Obituary
Jack Fontaine Rahn, of Kawkawlin, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2026, at the age of 80. He was born on September 3, 1946, to the late George and Agnes (Fontaine) Rahn of Kawkawlin.
Jack married the love of his life, Diane (Plumley) Rahn, on April 28, 1967. Together, they built a life centered around family, hard work, laughter, and a little bit of mischief. They raised their two children, Jeffrey and Stephanie, in Bay City before eventually returning to Kawkawlin, where they ran the Northland Motel and Northland Used Cars.
Jack earned his associate degree in Auto Mechanics from Ferris State University and went on to work for General Motors for 30 years as a pipe fitter before retiring. True to who he was, retirement never meant sitting still. Jack was happiest when he had something to fix, take apart, rebuild, collect, or turn into his next project.
Jack loved all things with motors. He raced motorcycles, worked on cars, and collected lawn mowers and vacuums—because, according to Jack, you could never have too many things that needed fixing. He had a special talent for finding treasures that other people had left at the side of the road, and he never met a "free" item or free food that he didn't appreciate. His many projects, collections, and tinkering kept him busy and provided endless stories for those who knew him.
He also loved a good card game, especially euchre and Texas Hold'em. Jack enjoyed investing and could often be found watching the ticker throughout the day on CNBC, keeping a close eye on his investments.
Jack had a personality all his own. He was quick-witted, sarcastic, and always ready with a perfectly timed comment. He loved to tease, give people a hard time, and laugh at the antics of those around him—and he expected them to give it right back. His sense of humor and mischievous spirit could keep a room laughing, even when he was the one everyone was laughing at. Beneath that teasing exterior was a man with an enormous heart. Jack loved to help others and would do just about anything for the people he cared about. He was generous with his time, his skills, and his willingness to lend a hand, even though he would much rather give than receive and never wanted anyone to go out of their way for him.
Family was at the heart of Jack's life. He was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend who could always be counted on when it mattered most. His family will remember not only the things he did for them, but also the stories, laughter, teasing, and countless memories he leaves behind.
Jack is survived by his children, Jeffrey Rahn and Stephanie (Todd) Bedell; grandchildren, Jen Courtney, Nicole (Kyle) Roberts, and Benjamin Wagner; great-grandchildren, Reese Courtney, Charlie Courtney, and Kyle Roberts Jr.; sister, Kay (Bill) Kern; sister-in-law, Debbie Plumley; and his beloved Rottweiler, Emma Sue.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Diane (Plumley) Rahn; his parents, George and Agnes Rahn; his in-laws, Robert and Agnes Plumley; and his brother- and sister-in-law, Tony and Janet Dzurka and Jim and Julie Abriel.
Jack leaves behind a lifetime of memories, projects that may or may not ever be finished, treasures found along the roadside, card games, investment tips, and more than a few stories that will undoubtedly be told with a laugh and a shake of the head.
He will be deeply missed by the family and friends who were lucky enough to know him, be loved by him, and occasionally be the target of his teasing.
Rest in peace, Jack. Your next project can wait.
Funeral service will be on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 11 am at Rivertown Funeral Chapel with Pastor Scott Morris presiding with burial at Heavenly Rest Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday at Rivertown Funeral Chapel from 2pm to 8pm. On Saturday from 10am till time of service.
