John T. Fish

John T. Fish, 86, of Bella Vista, Ark., passed away Feb. 26, 2016 in Northwest Medical Center. He was born Aug. 18, 1929 in Hancock County, Ill. to Vena and A.J. Fish. He graduated from Quincy, Illinois High School in 1947, lettering in three sports. John completed both a B.S. and M.S. Degree in Education from Western Illinois University in Macomb, lettering in three sports as well. He was a Korean War Veteran (1953-55), serving in Germany. John taught and coached in three public school systems in Illinois: Lowpoint/Washburn, Quincy Senior High and Northwest Suburban High School District 214 in Arlington Heights, where he was the Administrator of the Continuing Education Program. After 35 years in education, John and Fran moved to Bella Vista, Ark. in 1991. He served on the Bella Vista POA Board of Directors from 1993-1996. John enjoyed playing tennis, golf and bowling. He volunteered in the BV Crime Watch, serving as West Area Director for 18 years and as a Meals On Wheels Driver for 20 years. John was a 50 year member of Herman Lodge #39 and the Scottish Rite Consistory of Quincy, Ill. He was preceded in death by his parents and five older siblings and many nieces and nephews. John is survived by his loving spouse, Fran (married on April 3, 1958) and their two sons, Jay (Shari) Rome, N.Y., Joel (Karen) Bristol, Wis.; and daughter, Jan Barrentine (Gary) Covington, Ga. He loved all 11 of his grandchildren, Nathan, Nicole, Karly, Rachel, Collin, Maegan, Ryan, Amanda, Sarah, Connor, Aeryn, and one great-granddaughter, Kenna. A memorial service will be held at Bella Vista Community Church on April 9, at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials to BV Community Church or a charity of your choice is requested. Arrangements are by the Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory. On-line condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.