John William FISHBACK

FISHBACK, John William John passed away November 19, 2015. He was born November 13, 1936 in Naches, WA to John J. Fishback and Ellen Bennett Fishback. He spent his early childhood in Naches until the family moved to Connell, WA. In 1946 the family, including baby sister, Jeffra, moved to Washougal, WA. This was "home" for most of their lives. John was a good student participating in football, basketball, but especially baseball (and later adding golf). After graduating from WHS, he headed to Washington State College, pledged Phi Delta Theta fraternity, and found the love of his live, Pat Lewis. They married August 17, 1958 and continued at WSC pursuing their degrees. Graduating in June, 1959 John did some graduate work. In 1962 John followed his path to education. He received his teaching certificate, moved to Stevenson, WA for his first teaching position. While there, son Jay was born. Daughter, Libbi joined the family in 1966. John received his principal's credentials and Master's Degree from EWSC. In 1966 John and family moved to Washougal to begin his elementary principal career at Hathaway Elementary school. 1983 brought an unexpected opportunity allowing John to continue his principal expertise at Garden Springs and Sunset Elementary with the Cheney School District. He retired from education in 1992. Before moving from Cheney to Sun City West, AZ John was diagnosed with cancer in 2012. After a courageous battle, he passed away November 19, 2015. He is preceded in death by his sister Jeffra Schultz-Andersen. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Pat; son Jay (grandchildren John and Sara); daughter Libbi Bryan and husband Darin (grandchildren Shelby and stepson Matthew); brother in law Bo Schultz-Andersen (nephews Steen and Dane). A memorial service will be held at 2PM , Monday, December 14, 2015 at Advent Episcopal Church, 13150 Spanish Garden Dr., Sun City West, AZ 85375. A memorial service is planned for the summer in Washougal, WA. Because of John's desire to make a difference in the lives of children and having battled cancer, the family would hope, in lieu of flowers, you would make a donation in his name to Make-A Wish Alaska and Washington, 811 1st Ave #520, Seattle, WA 98104. Or online at http//akwa.wish.org