John E. Fry

John E. Fry, age 92, of Knoxville, Illinois, died at 11:18 P.M. on Sunday, June 10, 2018 at the Heartland Healthcare Center in Galesburg, Illinois. He was born on August 27, 1925 in Carlisle, Indiana, the son of LeRoy D. and Hazel M. (Wampler) Fry. He attended and graduated from Niles High School in Niles, Michigan, class of 1943. He served his country during World War II and the Korean War. On October 6, 1956 he married Dorcas Witherell at the Knoxville United Methodist Church in Knoxville, Illinois. John is survived by his wife, Dorcas Fry of Knoxville; a sister, June Harness of Inglewood, Florida; a niece, Jennifer (Joe) Bossey of Inglewood, Florida; and a niece by marriage, Cathy Harness of Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents; a stepfather, Arthur Taylor; and a nephew, James L. Harness. He was an employee of Gale Products in Galesburg for thirty years, and also farmed during this time. John was a member of the Knoxville United Methodist Church, where he was a church trustee, sang in the choir, was a Sunday school superintendent, and taught adult Sunday school classes for over twenty years. In addition to his service to his church, John was also very active in his community, and was a member of the Knox County Woodworkers Club, Harry Philblad American Legion Post #749, Past Master of the Mount Calvary Chapter of the Rose Croix, member and Past Worthy Patron in the Order of the Eastern Star #880, Bloomington Scottish Rite; he was also a fifty-year member and Past Master of the Pacific Lodge #66 A.F. & A.M., and a member of the American Passion Play for forty-four years where he was a Leader of the Mob, Disciple, and then Makeup Artist. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, bowling, and spending time outdoors. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 13, 2018 from 10:00 A.M to 11:00 A.M. at the Knoxville United Methodist Church in Knoxville, Illinois. Masonic Services will be held at 11:00 A.M., with the Memorial Service following, also at the Knoxville United Methodist Church in Knoxville. Rev. John Knueppel will officiate. A Private Graveside Service will be held at a later date at the Knoxville Cemetery in Knoxville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Knoxville United Methodist Church or Pacific Lodge #66 A.F. & A.M. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of John E. Fry please visit our Sympathy Store.