John R. Bianchetti

John R. Bianchetti, age 95, of Munising, died on Monday, January 5, 2026 at UPHS in Marquette. John was born in Iron Mountain, Michigan on November 15, 1930 to John and Palmira (Oraddei) Bianchetti. He grew up in Iron Mountain and played high school football for the Mountaineers. John graduated from Iron Mountain High School in 1948. During the Korean War, he served as a military police officer in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1950 – 1953. While stationed in Marquette, John met Donna “Tootsie” Richer and the rest was history. They were married on January 30, 1954. John graduated from Northern Michigan University with his bachelor’s degree in education and later his master’s degree. The family moved to Munising and Mr. Bianchetti taught history before becoming the guidance counselor for the Munising Public School System. After retirement, he and Tootsie enjoyed their winters in Gulf Shores, Alabama where they would walk the beach, take trips to the casino, and go to the dog races. They were active members of Sacred Heart Church and John was a member of the Knights of Columbus. His heart was shattered when Tootsie preceded him in death on December 1, 2021 after almost sixty-eight years of marriage. John carried his heartache up to the day he died. He was ready to be with her.

John is survived by his children Michael (Deborah) Bianchetti, Julie Bianchetti, Gary Bianchetti, and Kathryn Bianchetti White and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents John and Palmira, wife Tootsie, infant daughter Diane, sisters Lorraine Hicks and Anita Andreini, brother Mervin Bianchetti, daughter-in-law Mary Bianchetti, and grandson Stephen.

Private graveside services will be held at a later date.