Tuesday morning, December 27, 2022, retired MSgt. John Henry Mental passed from this earthly bond

where he joins the love of his life Phyllis Ann Mental in the Kingdom of Heaven. John was born in Toledo, Ohio on November 30, 1942, to Elmer and Lazora Mental; and older sister, Jean Lockman. All of whom have preceded him in death. He was raised almost as a gypsy, moving from Toledo, Ohio, Petoskey, Cedarville and Wyoming, Michigan multiple times in his youth and into high school (This moving around undoubtedly set the groundwork for what would be his career in the United States Air Force). He graduated from Petoskey High School in 1961, but he always claimed Godwin High School (Wyoming, Michigan) as his alma mater. This led to him meeting the love of his life on a blind date, who went to the rival Rogers High School, Phyllis Johnson. John joined the Air Force in 1962 and upon completion of his basic training and technical school he returned on leave in September 1963 to marry Phyllis and begin building a family along with his career. John retired from the Air Force in 1983 and transitioned into a civilian roll still working for the Air Force for another 23 years. He and Phyllis had 2 children, Kristin A. Simonson, and Michael H. Mental; along with 4 grandchildren, Lucas Simonson, Celeste Harmon, Carli Mental and Michael Mental, Jr. John was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Mental; father, Elmer; mother, Lazora Mental; and sister, Jean (Alan) Lockman. He is survived by his daughter, Kristin (Robert) Simonson Jr. (and their son, Lucas Simonson); son, Michael (Robin) Mental (and their children, Celeste Harmon, Carli Mental and Michael Mental Jr.); nephew, David Lockman; and niece, Vicki Lockman. He also leaves behind many lifelong friends from across the country. John made an impact on everyone he met, and he will always be remembered for the gracious and honorable man he was. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 7, 2023, at Zaagman Memorial Chapel (2800 Burton St. SE) with Pastor Aaron Johnson officiating. A livestream of the service may be viewed by visiting the link on his obituary page by clicking here . The family will greet relatives and friends at the funeral home on Friday, January 6 from 4-7 pm and on Saturday one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution in John's name to: Wounded Warrior Project or the Alzheimer's Association.