John Edward Nemec

John "Jud" Edward Nemec, born August 1, 1937, in Cleveland, Ohio, was the beloved son of John and Velma Nemec. John passed away on December 10, 2025, at home surrounded by his family, leaving behind a life rich in accomplishment, service, and devotion. He was 88 years old.

John graduated from The Ohio State University in 1960, where he earned a degree in mechanical engineering. When he took his state certification for engineering, he discovered he had the highest score in the state at that time. John was a lifelong, passionate Ohio State Buckeyes fan. This fact became legendary as early in his career, he was transferred to Michigan, where he faithfully put up his Ohio State Flag every fall.

John built a distinguished career in the automotive industry. Through dedication and a natural ability to lead, John rose to become Vice President of International Sales and Marketing at GenCorp Automotive. When traveling for business to places such as Europe, Korea and Japan, John always brought home interesting stories and presents for his family.

As a world traveler, John enjoyed exploring new places and experiences with his wife and family. No matter how far his travels took him, his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio remained close to his heart-especially its baseball team. Springtime was always filled with Cleveland Indians baseball, a love that began early when John landed his very first job at Cleveland Stadium in 1950. At just 13 years old, John became a stadium vendor. All across the stadium he would walk with one eye on the game and another on his supplies. He could be heard shouting “Pecan, pop nuts, chewing can, gumdy.”

Sports were a lifelong joy for John. He played fast pitch and slow pitch softball as both a pitcher and first baseman, where his 6-foot-3 frame and great stretch made him a standout on the field. He also enjoyed bowling, golfing and playing cards. Most recently, he loved playing Duplicate Bridge with his friends at the Livonia Senior Center valuing both the competition and the camaraderie that came with them. For 45 years, John was deeply involved in his faith community at St. Aidan's Church, where he served faithfully as an usher, was an active member of the Men's Club and played on St. Aidan’s softball team for several seasons.

Above all else, John loved his family. He was a devoted husband to Magdalene "Maggie" (nee. Merda) for 62 years and the best dad ever—steadfast, supportive, and always present for his son, Thomas Nemec and daughter, Caroline Nemec (Laurel). He was very playful and cherished his role as grandfather and found great joy in his grandson, Ryan and granddaughter, Amelia. When told they were coming for Christmas he said, “I will jump for joy.” John is also survived by his two brothers, Dennis (Lynda) and David Nemec (Judy) as well as many nieces and nephews who he loved and who loved him dearly.

John will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor, integrity, warmth, and unwavering love for family, faith, and community. His legacy lives on in his children, grandchildren, the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind.

The visitation will be held Sunday, June 14th, 2026 from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at Manns Family Funeral Home, 17000 Middlebelt Road, Livonia, Michigan 48154.

The funeral service will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026 at St. Aidan’s Catholic Church, 17500 Farmington Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152.