John Podesta Jr., 82

John William Podesta Jr. died Thursday, Sept. 8, 2011, in Coeur d'Alene after a long illness. John was born March 18, 1929, in Clayton, Mich., to John W. Podesta Sr. and Velma V. Podesta. He grew up and lived in Ann Arbor, Mich. He attended Michigan State University, graduating in 1951 with a degree in mechanical engineering. He enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, serving from 1952-54. He had a 35-year career with General Motors. During this period John was a member and active in Alcoholics Anonymous, The Society of Automotive Engineers, and Michigan State University Alumnae Association and President's Club.

He moved to California for health reasons and there met and married Valerie, the girl of his dreams, in 1995. They moved to Colorado and then to Idaho in 2001.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 17 years, Valerie; ex-wife Betty L. Podesta; daughters Diane L. Carson (Doug) of Howell, Mich., Lizabeth A. Grove (Marvin) of Big Rapids, Mich; step-children Carolyn L. Dodds (Klaus) and Manuel V. Kizirian, in England; three grandchildren in Michigan, Brian J. Grove, Ryan B. Piel, Stacia A. Grove; step-grandchildren in England, Alex A. Dodds, Millie L. Dodds; step-brother Ron Hanawalt (Jo) of Fort Collins, Colo.; Cousin Kenny Kesler of Wyoming, Mich., and his son Gary Kesler of Grandville, Mich.

John was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Susan M. Podesta; brother Galen L. Podesta; step-mother Elizabeth M. Podesta; step-grandson Theo J. Dodds.

John was very much loved by family and friends and will always be remembered as a very kind, warm, humble and loving person, with a great sense of humor.

In lieu of flowers, donations to "Smile Train" at www.smiletrain.org or (800)932-9541 will be much appreciated. Private services and cremation have taken place. Yates Funeral Home, Coeur d'Alene Chapel, has been entrusted with the care of final arrangements. Please visit John's online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com