Obituary of Jonathan Lower

Rev. Jonathan P. Lower Sr., 70, of Bellevue, went to be with his Lord peacefully at Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice in Battle Creek on April 2, 2008 following a courageous battle with cancer. Jonathan was born on February 26, 1938 in Battle Creek to the late Ford and Madonna (Zimmerman) Lower. He graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1956. He was employed at Kellogg Company for ten years. On April 9, 1960 Jonathan married Elaine Johnson at a ceremony in Battle Creek. In 1966 the couple moved to Louisville, Kentucky where Jonathan received his electronic certification. Jonathan was an electronic technician for over twenty years and always enjoyed the challenge of installing, repairing or re-wiring equipment. In 1969, the Lowers moved back to Battle Creek, where he worked for All-Tronics, Inc. for many years. He became a full time Pastor of Apostolic Tabernacle in Battle Creek in 1971 and remained there until his retirement in 1993. Jonathan was licensed and ordained with the Assemblies of the Lord Jesus Christ and served in many different capacities, including Superintendent of the Michigan District, for many years. Reverend and Mrs. Lower were instrumental in starting the Michigan District Family Camp for the A.L.J.C. Many will recall Jonathan's musical ability, especially playing the trumpet, and he enjoyed visiting other churches to encourage their congregations both musically and spiritually. In more recent years, he and his wife have enjoyed traveling the country in their motor home and wintering in Florida. Jonathan was preceded in death by his two children, Jonathan Paul Lower, Jr. and Penny Lynn Lower, both passing away from injuries sustained in an automobile accident in 1978. He was also preceded in death by four brothers; Dale Lower, Joseph Lower, John David Lower, and his twin Nathan Lower. He is survived by his wife of forty-eight years, Elaine Lower of Bellevue, three families adopted with love; Bob and Sue Tomkinson of Battle Creek, Mike and Diane Davis of Battle Creek, Rick and Brenda Springer of Battle Creek, as well as all of their children who have been like grandchildren, two sisters; June Thompson of Albertville, Minnesota and Violet Beatty of Battle Creek, as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. A time of visitation will be held on Friday April 4, 2008 from 4:00p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at The Potter's House Church, 226 Capital Avenue N.E. in Battle Creek. Funeral services will be Saturday April 5th, at 10:00 a.m. at The Potter's House Church with Reverend Stanley Eastman and Pastor Mark Hopper officiating. An interment will follow at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens.