John Walter Bichsel's Obituary
John Walter Bichsel, 93, went to be with his Lord on March 6, 2013 in Dunedin, Florida.John was born on March 31, 1919 in Cleveland, Ohio to John & Minnie Bichsel. Brothers and sisters were Harry, Arthur, Grace and Florence all of which passed on before him.He graduated from Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio in 1941 with a Degree in Accounting. He enlisted in the Army in August, 1941 after graduation from college. John was a Tech Sergeant in the Asiatic Pacific Theatre serving as a Cryptographer in India. He was honorably discharged in October 1945 at the end of WWII. He was employed by Western Electric in Cleveland, Ohio December of 1945 after his separation from the US Army. John worked for Western Electric until his retirement from the company in1982, which is now named Alcatel-Lucent. A manager with the company both in Cleveland and New York City he was recognized for his loyalty and service many times receiving numerous distinguishing honors over the years.John met his loving wife of 66 years, Marguerite in 1945. She had moved into the house next to his parents while he was serving in the Pacific. She became known by all as the "Girl next door." On May 4, 1946 they were married in Cleveland at Grace Lutheran Church. His wife, Marguerite, 88, resides at Emeritus in Dunedin where John passed away.He is survived by his 4 children: Linda Khan, Marcia Rice, Jack Bichsel and David Bichsel. 7 grandchildren: Amer, Deborah, Chris, Tim, Sara, Stephen, Rebecca and Hanna. One grandson, Ziad, passed away 4 years ago. 6 great grandchildren: Zachary, Abigail, Berlin, Alexander, Colton and Ava.After retirement John and his wife, Marguerite, moved from Cleveland to Dunedin, Florida returning to Ohio for the summers until the year 2000. They then became yearlong residents in Skyloch Villas. In September of 2012 they moved into Emeritus Assisted Living Facility in Dunedin.John held many leadership positions throughout his life. He was active in his church in various positions and served as an officer of the Skyloch Villas Association for many years.President Chamber of Commerce - Solon, OhioPresident Trinity Lutheran Church - Hicksville, New YorkPresident and Elder Faith Lutheran Church - Dunedin, FloridaChairman, President and Treasurer - Skyloch Villas AssociationTech Sergeant US Army 1941-1945 Pacific TheaterThere will be a Memorial Service on Saturday March 30th at 11:30 am at: Faith Lutheran Church1620 Pinehurst RoadDunedin, Florida 34698There is a Memorial Fund in John's name at Faith Lutheran for those desiring to honor him.All donations are greatly appreciated by the family.Cards can be mailed to Marguerite and family at:1497 Main St. Ste 305Dunedin, Florida 34698
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