Jack R. Bird , age 91 of Manistee, Michigan, formerly of Alma, Michigan, died peacefully Wednesday, November 9, 2022, at Munson HealthCare Hospital in Manistee.

He was born September 25, 1931 in Cass City, Michigan, son of the late John and Ethel (Silver) Bird. Jack was a graduate of Cass City High School with the Class of 1950. He served in the US Army during the Korean War from 1952 through 1954. Following his return, he married his true love, Barbara J. Howarth on August 7, 1954 in Cass City, Michigan and they remained married for the next 56 years until her passing. He attended Central Michigan University and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education, followed by a Masters in Administration. Jack dedicated his entire educational career to the Alma Public School System until he retired in 1987. Throughout his career, he served as a teacher, coach, drivers training instructor and administrator. Upon their retirement, Jack and Barbara enjoyed traveling, camping, and spending time with family. In addition, Jack was an avid sports fan. In particular, he enjoyed rooting for the Detroit Tigers and his beloved Michigan Wolverines. Later in life, Jack and Barbara moved to Manistee to be near family. This year, Jack was selected to participate in the Mid-Michigan Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. in recognition of his military service.

Jack is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Rick and Mary Ruth Bird of Westland, Michigan, two daughters and sons-in-law, Kathy and Sandy Plevich of Austin, Texas and Jennifer and Marlen Cordes of Bear Lake, Michigan, seven grandchildren, Ryan and wife Rachel Bird, Erik Bird, Valerie Plevich, Nick Plevich, Jessica Cordes, Taylor Cordes, Megan Cordes and three great-grandchildren, Jace Carver, Julian Bird and Caleb Bird.

Jack is preceded in death by his wife Barbara and granddaughter Melissa Bird.

Private family services were held on Monday, November 14, 2022 at 11:00 AM at the Herbert Funeral Home in Manistee. Burial followed the service, at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery also in Manistee, where graveside Military Honors were given by the members of the Manistee County United Veterans Council Ritual Squad. The family received friends at the funeral home on Monday one hour prior to Jack's funeral service.

The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee was in charge of funeral services.