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John Bish Obituary

John J. Bish Of Tucson, AZ passed away February 16, 2006 after an arduous fight with Pulmonary Fibrosis. He is survived by his wife Shirley; daughter Diane Hurst (Neil) from Colorado, sons: John (Helena) and Thomas (Kimberly) from Tucson; and his 6 grandchildren Lauren, Jeff, Colleen, Bailey, Kristen, and Tyler. John was a man who loved his family, life and his careers. He graced the world with his love of life, smile and positive attitude. John started his career in the military, where he met his wife Shirley. He transitioned to a career at IBM where he retired as a Senior Engineer after 36 years of service. After retirement from IBM, John started a second career at Intuit. In his spare time, John spent many hours doing volunteer work preparing taxes for those who needed help. The family would like to express their greatest gratitude to the incredible staff at UMC of 4NW and 4NE who helped him fight the disease to the end. We met so many wonderful people who helped us through a very challenging time. A memorial service will be held at EAST LAWN MORTUARY , 5801 E Grant Rd. on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the UMC Foundation or the American Lung Association.
Published by Arizona Daily Star on Feb. 20, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for John Bish

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Sandra Schenker

April 4, 2006

I'm so sorry to hear about John. He will be missed by so many. As one of my "regulars" I always looked forward to his appointments. We always spent more time talking than it took to do his breathing test. The world lost a great man, but I have great memories of him that I will hold close.

Ambient Air

March 2, 2006

We at Ambient Air were very sad at the passing of Mr. Bish. Although we have known him for a short time, he was a delight to visit.

Our deepest sympathies are with you.

Cindy Bogle

February 25, 2006

Tom and Kim and Bish Family: I am sorry for your loss. I briefly knew your dad Tom, but what I saw was that he was a good and kind person. Take care.

Tracey wilson

February 23, 2006

I met Mr.Bish at UMC, I was one of his many respiratory therapists .

And I just wanted to say that Mr. Bish was one of the most pleasant , kind, humorous and sincere individuals that I have ever known.

It was a pleasure to take care of him.

I looked forward to seeing and talking with him.

Yes, Mr. Bish has left a lasting impression on me ..in the most positive way.

God bless to his family.

PCT (UMC)

February 23, 2006

Shirley,



I met you and Mr. Bish at UMC and I instantly connected with ya'll. John and I shared so many conversations and he was always there for me when I was having a rough day. His take on life made me want to smile more. He was like my father and he was also my friend. All of this happen so sudden and I never got a chance to say good-bye, but I know he knew how much I cared for him. Heaven got a good one!!

Tammy Donovan

February 22, 2006

February 22, 2006

Dearest Shirley,Diane,John and Tom, I was your neighbor at the Georgetown apts. I was very saddened to hear of your loss, I remember John as being such a kind and respectfull man. It is sad to reunite with old dear friends this way... I remember all the awesome bbq's our family's had together. I too lost my dad Ed Donovan, it will be 2 years this coming March. Take care and God Bless to all... [email protected] Tammy Donovan.

Tammy Donovan (Kirtland, NM)

[email protected]

Joanne Schum

February 22, 2006

John brought a smile to many people. He attended the Transplant Support-Lung, Heart/Lung, Heart web site and we were hoping he could get his lung transplant he so much wanted to receive. He was encouraging to others, while he so was sick. A man who could bring a smile to others lives.

Shirley and family, you are in my thoughts.

Joanne

Lynn Moser

February 22, 2006

I have so many great memories of being at the Bish's home throughout my high school and college years. John and Shirley always treated all of us "marching band kids" as if we were part of their family and created a second home for us. John was always genuinely interested in what was going on in our lives and was always eager to learn new things. You are all in my thoughts.

Mike Hartung

February 22, 2006

Shirley, John, and Tom, My thoughts are with you. I worked with John for many years. His skills and working style guaranteed that he had the respect of all those he worked with. His personal style,friendly manner, and integrity also won me as one of his many friends.

joyce & tom kempster

February 21, 2006

IN SUCH A LARGE WORLD JOHN GAVE US EVEN LARGER VALUES ON LIFE, LOVE, FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND HAPPINESS AND SO MUCH MORE. I AM SO GLAD TO KNOW YOU ALL. THANKS SUNSHINE

John & Linda Lay

February 21, 2006

We are fortunate to have know John over the years. I had the pleasure to work with him in Tucson multiple times and even attend a class he held while in Minnesota. Most of all, I was proud to call him my friend.

Barb and Paul Carmedelle

February 21, 2006

We were so blessed to have an uncle like John Bish. It was so very comfortable and loving to be with Uncle John. He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, wonderful memories, and big smile. All our love to Aunt Shirley, Diane, John, Tom and their families.

Jim Wagner

February 21, 2006

John was one of the good ones.. I will miss him dearly....

Bill Clark

February 20, 2006

I was very privileged to have been

befriended by John after IBM moved me to Tucson in 1980. We both were test coordinators on the project for which the Tucson site was built and I quickly learned about his technical judgement, dedication, quick wit and genuine caring for the people he worked with. I worked with him for many years and spent many an evening benefitting from his guidance. He became, not only a professional associate, but a very good friend! I will miss the opportunity to visit him, now, and I can only wish the best to you, Shirley. (I have a hug for you when I see you!) He was a very good man, one that I am proud to have associated with.

Rik,Frank England/Perez

February 20, 2006

We Loved John Dearly not only as a friend but also as a father figure we admired his happy outlook and will always remember how happy he was with his wife Shirley and how proud he was of all of his children and friends. CHEERS! John LOVE Rik and Frank

John & Sandy Lee

February 20, 2006

It is with great sadness of the loss of John. I have many fond memories of him from my childhood. He was a wonderful man and will be missed greatly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

R. Clark Roushey

February 20, 2006

Dear Shirley, John and Tom,

John and I shared a career path that was similar. After leaving IBM, I too went to work for Intuit on the Elvira site. It was really very funny the way John talked about all of the years that had passed and here he was right back where he had started in Tucson. His smile, his attitude about life, the pride he had in his family were the things that drew people into his circle. He was not only a colleague but a true friend who always had a kind word or a really good joke. I will miss him a great deal, but nowhere near as much as you will. I send my deepest condolences to all of you and know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. The world is just a little sadder today.

Dave & Margo Tetrault

February 20, 2006

Our thoughts and prayers go out to John's family. John continues to have a positive impact on many people's lives through the way he lived life and through his wonderful family. I (Dave) will miss my visits with John at UMC and his optimistic outlook.

Kelly and Carl Blake

February 20, 2006

Mr. Bish was always so fun and welcoming whenever we were in his home. He was a loving father and a special man to all.

Sue Hold

February 20, 2006

To Shirley and family,

John was one of the greatest co-workers I ever had the pleasure to work with. A true friend and wonderful colleague. I will miss him very much. My prayers are with all of you in your time of sorrow.

Sue Hold

John Magnon

February 20, 2006

John became a friend after his vist to the New Orleans Ochsner Hospital last year. We never met personally, but had a couple of wonderful telephone conversations. Since that time we exchanged numerous e-mails and I always enjoyed hearing of the triumphs he had in his battle of the odds. He was a galant and vigorous warrior and will be missed by all who knew him. I thought he would win, but higher beings had other plans.

My sympathy to Shirley and the family.



John Magnon

Janis Pridans

February 20, 2006

My condolences to the entire Bish family. I worked together with John at IBM. He was a wonderful collegue and I feel honored to have been able to know him. We missed him here after his retirement and now further miss him after his passing away.

Sheryl and Ted Doll

February 20, 2006

John and I worked together at the IBM Academic Information Systems university conferences. He was special then and he is special now. Our hearts and love go out to his family at this very sad time.

Norma Young

February 20, 2006

I remember John with a smile and special fondness. He was always so optimistic and encouraging. He was ready and willing and available for answering questions and digging into his depth of knowledge to help all. I know INTUIT and IBM friends will miss him. My sympathy to all of John's family and my prayers for peace and comfort for all of you in the days ahead. Norma

Joe Paugh

February 20, 2006

Tom & John,

I was very sorry to hear about the passing of your father. Please accept my deepest condolences. My prayers are with you and your family. I worked with your Dad for several years and I respected him not only in a technical manner but also admired him for the love he had for his family. He always glowed when speaking of you guys....he was very proud of you both.

Dale Hicks

February 20, 2006

I worked with John for several years and really enjoyed him. John was one of the really great people I have had contact with.

Glenda Kinney

February 20, 2006

I remember John as always being positive, always pleasant, very kind! I am sorry for your loss!

John P Stanton

February 20, 2006

To Shirley and extended family:

John knew how to light up a room. He was able to see the best in each and every one he interacted with. He knew how to bring out a chuckle even in most serious times. He will be remembered & Missed..

John

Robert and Susan Paynter

February 20, 2006

Our love and heart-felt sympathy to all of you. We have so many fond memories. Come visit St. Louis.

Victoria Batchelor

February 20, 2006

John will be greatly missed. His spirit and strenth will always be an inspiration to me. He always handled any obstacle with dignity and grace, and always with an amazing sense of humor. Godspeed.

Fred and Bev Matthews

February 20, 2006

Much love and respect to our brother-in-law and long time friend.

Sandi Rousseau

February 20, 2006

John was the most cheerful, outgoing, sharing, and caring individual I've ever known. He was a pure delight to know and to work with. Rest in peace John. My prayers and sympathies are with the family at this difficult time.

Lupe Travis

February 20, 2006

To Shirley and family our condolences. We knew John from work and his caring and smiles were what made him. He always had something nice to say about anybody. We are going to miss him but we also know he is with God and is resting. Shirley, God Bless you and your family

Chuck and Lupe Travis

Celia Foust

February 20, 2006

John was a great man and a great friend. Even after retiring he still never forgot his friends here. John, we will miss your friendly smile and talking with you of your times here at IBM. May God take you to his place up in the heavens where I know you will still have that great smile. May God Bless you.

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