Fremont, Michigan, native Jan Deur chose Muskegon County as his home after retiring from Verizon, dedicating his energy, leadership, and compassion to the community he came to love.

A trusted friend, mentor, and quiet source of encouragement to many, Jan has helped shape West Michigan’s cultural and civic life. He served as Co-Chair of the West Michigan Symphony’s capital campaign and continues to serve as treasurer on its board. His leadership and support have also strengthened initiatives for the White Lake Playhouse, Lakeshore Museum Center, The Nature Conservancy, and the preservation of the Frauenthal Center. In addition, Jan served as a trustee for the Community Foundation for Muskegon County and volunteered as a tax preparer through Sacred Suds, assisting low-income individuals and families with care, patience, and dignity.

To know Jan is to know someone who leads with kindness, listens with empathy, and gives generously of both his time and heart. While his contributions have left a lasting mark on the Muskegon community, the example he sets in how he treats people may be even more meaningful.

Established in 1999, the Patricia B. Johnson Award for Community Leadership and Innovative Grantmaking recognizes individuals and organizations that reflect the leadership, innovation, and dedication to community development exemplified by Pat Johnson, the Community Foundation’s respected president for 19 years.

While presenting the 2026 award to Jan Deur, Pat Johnson’s son, Peter, shared, “It is a true privilege to honor those who have given so much, just as my mother did. That spirit of quiet, impactful service is exactly what the Patricia B. Johnson Award for Community Leadership and Innovative Grantmaking celebrates.”