Jack L. Kineman

Jack Lavern Kineman, born October 16, 1935, in Brookport, Ill. to Owen Stephen Kineman and Mildred Fern Riepe, died May 31, 2021, in Charlotte, Mich.
Jack’s first 20 years were farm living and attending K-12 in Brookport, Ill. then to Paducah, Ky. Junior College for two years. Paducah is where he met his wife, Lavinia “Carolyn” Milner. They married on September 14, 1957 and lived in West LaFayette, Ind. while Jack earned his Civil Engineering degree at Purdue University, graduating in June 1958. As a Professional Engineer and Registered Surveyor, Jack was hired to lead a team surveying President Eisenhower’s Civil Defense Highway System by laying out I-75 the length of Michigan to Sault Ste Marie. Next, Jack entered the Civil Engineer Training Program of the Michigan Department of State Highways and quickly rose to oversee the layout of interstate, primary, and secondary highways throughout Michigan. After four years he returned to his home state of Illinois. to work for the Illinois Department of Public Works as well as other engineering jobs. However, he loved the rolling natural spaces of Michigan and was thrilled to be hired as the Civil Engineer Manager for Barry County in 1970-1979. Then on to Sanilac County 1979-1986, then back to Barry County as Manager 1986-Retiring 1997.
Jack and Carolyn have three children, Steven, Rhonda, and Melinda; and five grandchildren, Radie, Maizie, Zephie, Bram, and Oskar. After his retirement, he studied American society and became a staunch democrat working door to door supporting candidates that favored social and environmental justice. His biggest passion was to educate local people on the dangerous consequences of fracking. He also volunteered his many construction skills on international mission trips building schools, homes, and sanitary facilities. Domestically, he worked on numerous Habitat for Humanity Projects. His love of nature extended from his early years on the farm throughout his life, enjoying Barry County’s many opportunities for hunting, fishing, and hiking. Alzheimer’s took his life, but it did not take his spirit; this humble man made the world a better place and will be missed by many.
In lieu of flowers, please direct any donations to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.
A memorial service will be announced later this year.
Cards of remembrance can be sent to Steven M. Kineman 388 North Wheaton Road, Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Jack’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit Burkhead-Green-Kilgo.com.
The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.