John Arnold Isch, 85

John Arnold Isch passed away on April 19, 2008, in Tacoma, Wash. He was born Feb. 25, 1923, in Kalispell to Emily and Julius Isch. He graduated from Flathead County High School in 1941.

He served for three years in the United States Navy during World War II as a radioman 2nd Class. Two of those years were spent in the Pacific Theater on the Marshall Islands.

John married Joyce Evelyn Moothart on Dec. 4, 1945.

He attended Montana State College, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural sciences. After graduation, he worked with the Bureau of Reclamation, as first a surveyor and then a hydraulic engineer until his retirement in 1978.

His hobbies included golf, bowling, fishing, enjoying the outdoors and music. He sang as a bass with many church choirs and barbershop groups, and played the guitar in several old time musician groups.

He had a special fondness for animals, especially those in need.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Phyllis Meecham. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joyce; his daughters, Judith Shulmire, Joycelyn Dolan, and Jayne Isch, and their spouses; one granddaughter; two grandsons; and two great-granddaughters.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at the Villas at Union Park in Tacoma.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.