John Walter Pung

John Walter Pung, affectionately known as Jack, passed away at the age of 87 on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at Rosebush Manor, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 26, 1938, Jack was the sixth of seven children to Joseph A. and Mary C. 'Mattie' (Simmer) Pung. He graduated from Beal City High School in 1956 and married Karleen Lueder on July 27, 1963, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Mt. Pleasant.

Jack began his career at the age of 18 with the State of Michigan at the Regional Center in Mt. Pleasant, where he worked his way up to the position of Administrator before retiring in 1990. In his retirement, he continued to contribute to his community through his work with the Beal City Knights of Columbus Council 3651 where he was a longtime member. He also served as an usher at St. Joseph the Worker Parish.

Jack was a devoted father and grandfather, cherishing time spent with his family. He enjoyed visiting the casino, golfing, hunting, fishing, playing cards, and boating with his beloved grandchildren. Despite the loss of his wife Karleen in 1980, Jack dedicated himself to raising their four children with love and care.

He is survived by his special friend, Barb Cook; his children, Scott (Renae) Pung, Jean (Frank) Fox, Roger (Kris) Pung, and Pam (Randy) Sharrar, all residing in Beal City; nine grandchildren, Sarah (Jeff) Perry, Julia Pung (Kalvin), Kyle (Kendra) Fox, Adam (Larissa) Fox, Nicole Fox, Jordan Pung (Paige), Jace Pung, Karleen "Karlee" Sharrar (Chad), and Kollin Sharrar (Makenna); three great-grandchildren, Austin, Brynn, and Frankie; his brother, Ray Pung of Weidman; and numerous nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Karleen in 1980, his siblings, Vada Tilmann, Gerald Pung, Dub Pung, Bob Pung, and Donnie Pung, and his great-granddaughter, Karsyn Fox.

A Funeral Mass for Jack will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 30, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Beal City. Father Andy LaFramboise will preside. Rite of Committal will be at St. Joseph Cemetery followed by a luncheon at the Knights of Columbus Hall. The family will receive friends in the gathering room of the church on Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. with the Rosary beginning at 7 p.m. Visitation continues on Thursday one hour before Mass.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph the Worker Church. Envelopes will be available at the church.