John A. Kent, 75, of Mishawaka, formerly of Chesterton and the LaPorte and Rolling Prairie areas, died Thursday Jan. 28, 2010 at his home. He was 75.

Born August 9, 1934 in Michigan City, he was the son of John P. Kent and Elenor L. (Buxton) Kent.

John worked as an engineer for American Steel Foundry in Hammond, Recticel Foam and Scotts Foreman, retiring in 1994. He grew up in Chesterton and graduated from Chesterton High School. He moved to the Rolling Prairie area in 1971. He sang in the New Carlisle and the U.S. Steel Choirs. John enjoyed nature, woodworking and wine making. He taught at Ivy Tech and volunteered with the LaPorte Library Coalition.

On July 30, 1955, in Chesterton, he married Jacqueline H. Colley Kent, who survives.

Also surviving are three sons, Gregory A. Kent of Michigan City, Christopher J. Kent of Auburn, Maine, and Matthew E. Kent (wife Katherine) of South Bend; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and one brother, Bruce R. Kent of Mishawaka.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son Jeffry M. Kent, and brother, Timothy B. Kent.

Arrangements are being handled by the Haverstock Funeral Home, 602 Maple Ave., LaPorte. A memorial gathering of family and friends will be held on Saturday, Jan. 30, from 3 to 6 p.m. Cremation will take place.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, 300 N. Michigan St. Suite 412, South Bend, Ind. 46601. Online condolences may be made at www.haverstockfuneralhome.com

Posted 1/29/2010