Beloved husband, father and grandfather, J. L., known as "Mac" or "Pop", was one of the most inspiring men ever known. He lighted up the room with his presence, the most, gentle, warm, hearted man that loved everyone. He loved his family, friends, church, and loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was born in Nelson, Ky. with five other siblings, Elgan, Othal, Dimple, Nancy, and Betty Jo. As a young boy he loved to ride his bicycle and hunt rabbits. With much work that needed to be done on the farm, he developed a strong work ethic throughout his life. He worked his career at General Cable of Emeryville, Calif. for 19 years, General Motors of Fremont, CA for 2 years, and the U. S. Postal Service as maintenance custodian for 12 years in San Lorenzo, Calif. He was a member of the VFW NV Post 8660 in Dayton, Nev.
He was stationed in Central Europe during World War II in the U.S. Army. He drove tanks and was known as the "Farm Boy." He moved to Gary, Ind. where he met his beautiful, wonderful, and faithful wife Barbara Hayden and married on Oct. 22, 1949 in Central City, Ky. They celebrated 50 years of marriage in 1999. They had four children, John, William, David, and Bonnie. He has seven grandchildren, John Jr., Jarod, Amanda, Kathleen, Michelle, Monica, and Matthew. Seven great grandchildren, Devony, Kaitlyn, Hailey, Jayla, Maliyah, Liam and Brianna known as Pop's kitty. In 1990, he moved to Dayton, Nev. to be close to the ones he loved most. He has watched over all of us throughout the years.
He is survived by his baby sister, Betty Jo; Bonnie, his daughter; William and David, his two sons. Those that have been touched by Pop's compassion, love, and integrity will never forget him. He has made an impact on so many of us. The world was a better place with him and will be truly missed. He inspired each and every one of us in some way.
There will be a Celebration of Life for J.L. on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2012 at 11:30 a.m. at Fitzhenry's Chapel of Faith. Interment will follow at Northern Nevada Veteran's Memorial Cemetery in Fernley, Nev. with full military honors. FitzHenry's Funeral Home is caring for arrangements.
