Edward Maxwell

MAXWELL, Edward John "Jack" - Age 96, died peacefully at home Thursday, February 28, 2008 surrounded by his family. Funeral services will be 2PM Monday, March 3, 2008 at Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Rd., Swartz Creek with Rev. David Gailbraith officiating. Burial will be in the Bristol Cemetery, W. Bristol and Torrey Rds. The family will receive visitors at the funeral home Saturday from 5-9PM and Sunday from 11AM-9PM. Jack was born January 25, 1912 in Flint to Arthur E. and Celia I. (Handler) Maxwell. Following his parents death in 1920, Jack and his brother Herbert were adopted by his aunt and uncle George W. and Sarah (Sadie) Maxwell. He married Mildred Irene Peters on November 4, 1933. She died October 14, 1998. Jack worked for the Flint Township Fire Department and was it's first full time fire chief. He retired in 1972 after 25 years with the department. He was very active in the fire service and was one of the organizers of the Genesee County Firemen's Association in 1949 and served as it's president. He was president of the Michigan Fireman's Association in 1964-65 and was president of the Michigan Fire Chief's Association in 1967-68. He was an active member of the Southeastern Michigan Fire Chief's Association and of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. Governor Wm. Milliken appointed Jack to the State Fire Safety board in 1968 and he served on that board until his retirement. He was deputy director of civil defense in Genesee County for many years, having been appointed by Sheriff Tom Wolcott. He was a member of Peace Presbyterian Church in Flint. Jack is survived by daughters, Margaret I. and husband Jack Kildee of Flushing, Evelyn J. and husband John Murphy of Flushing; son, Edward R. and wife Jill of Linden; daughter-in-law, Glenna Maxwell of Flint Twp. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Mildred (Millie) on October 14, 1998; his son, Arthur E. on March 18, 1999, and his brother, Herbert on May 19, 1995. He leaves 15 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren. Those desiring may make contributions to the Genesee County Fire Chief's Association Honor Guard or to Peace Presbyterian Church. Special thanks to Woodhaven Senior Community staff, the staff of Helping Hand Nursing Service, Cynthia Fortin RN, David Middleton RN from Avalon Hospice, all his friends at the Flint Township offices and Dr. Orestes Iung for his many years of concerned care and friendship. Tributes and online condolences may be posted to the obituaries page at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com