John A. Van Til

John A. Van Til, age 77, of Cedar Lake, Indiana, passed away on October 21, 2025, after several years of health challenges. Born in Chicago, Illinois, to the late John and Alice Van Til, he grew up in the Roseland and Lansing communities. John is survived by his devoted wife, Carla; his sisters, Thea (James) Rusthoven and Esther (Brian) Hayman; and his children and their families: Rachel (Jeff) Miller with their children, David and Joshua; Timothy (Lauren) Van Til with their children, Leah and TJ; Jonathon Van Til with his daughter, Skylar; and Jennifer (John) Pak with their children, Xander, Dakota, Makenzie, Chase, and Zachary. In total, John was a proud grandfather to ten beloved grandchildren whose lives he deeply enriched. A graduate of Trinity Christian College, John majored in history, education, and business. He spent 30 years with Ford Motor Company, retiring as Vehicle Scheduling Manager at the Chicago Assembly Plant. Known for his wisdom, humor, and caring leadership, John was highly respected by colleagues and friends. Faith was the cornerstone of John’s life. He had a deep love for the Lord and a lifelong curiosity about Scripture, always eager to connect his faith to everyday work and relationships. In his later years, he was honored to have several articles published in Dordt University’s Pro Rege journal, where he explored Christian leadership, vocation, and the integration of faith and work. John’s love for history and storytelling reflected his appreciation for the past and the values it carried forward. He took great interest in the stories of his parents and grandparents, honoring their lives and the heritage they passed down. He was a gifted storyteller, often sharing vivid memories from his childhood and tales passed down from his father about life on the Van Til farm and experiences during World War II. At home, John found joy in time spent with his family and in his partnership with Carla. Together they transformed their home and their life into a reflection of their shared love and teamwork. Whether tackling home projects, nurturing their apple trees to perfection, or training his beloved pup, Penny, John took quiet pride in the beauty and care they built together. He delighted in sharing his knowledge and craftsmanship with his family. A skilled woodworker and model maker, John enjoyed teaching his children and grandchildren how to use tools, repair cars, and approach life with patience and creativity. These moments of hands-on learning became some of his most treasured gifts to his family. Music was another of John’s lifelong joys. He loved to sing and, in his younger years, played both the trombone and bass horn. Throughout his life, he shared his deep understanding of Christian faith and had a remarkable ability to make Scripture practical and relatable to everyday life. In his later years, as he faced physical challenges with courage and faith, John remained a source of encouragement and humor for those around him. His presence, wisdom, and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Visitation and Service A public visitation will be held on Monday, October 27, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 6:00 p.m. at Crown Point Christian Reformed Church, 909 E. Greenwood Ave. in Crown Point, Indiana. John will be cremated following the service, and a graveside burial of his ashes will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dordt University in John’s memory. Burns Funeral Home, Crown Point entrusted with arrangements. www.burnsfuneral.com.

John A. Van Til

September 5, 1948 - October 21, 2025