John Wayne “Jack” Bishop
Jack Bishop, 75, of Honesdale, died on Friday, February 16, 2024 at his home, surrounded by his family following a long illness. He is survived by his wife and ‘buddy’ of 52 years, the former MaryJo Ferraro. The couple married on May 29, 1971.
Born on August 6, 1948 in Honesdale, he was the son of the late Edgar and Florence (Derrick) Bishop. He was a graduate of Honesdale High School, class of ’66 and happily maintained friendships with numerous classmates.
Jack joined the Army on January 16, 1967. Although he experienced health issues, he volunteered 3 times for duty in Vietnam before his requests were granted. He served in Vietnam for one year. He was awarded the Bronze Star on September 25,1969 for meritorious service in connection with military operations against hostile forces in Vietnam. At the time of presentation, he was an Administrative Supervisor (E-6 Staff Sergeant) with Personnel Section of Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry, 1st Brigade of the 101st Airborne Division (Airmobile) in Vietnam. In addition to the Bronze Star, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Vietnam Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal. Jack was among the multitude of Vietnam Veterans who were disparaged for their service in Vietnam. Rather than resenting this, he worked tirelessly, for the remainder of his life, to support all veterans and assist their needs. He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) on the local and national level. One of his greatest joys was participation in the organization of the annual Honesdale Memorial Day Parade and participating in the ceremony to follow at Central Park.
Following his discharge from the service he began his college studies at the University of Scranton and then transferred to Marywood College to major in Special Education. He was employed by NEIU 19 and was assigned to many locations including Friendship House, Easter Seals, Preston and Wayne Highlands. Upon his retirement from teaching, he served as the Principal of Lourdesmont School in Clarks Summit for 3 years. His final years of employment were as a Veterans Employment Representative in Tannersville, Pittston, Shohola and Honesdale.
Jack loved his Catholic Faith and was a member of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Honesdale and the Eucharistic Chapel. He and his wife, MaryJo were coordinators of the marriage preparation course (Pre Cana) for the Diocese of Scranton for many years.
Family came first after his faith. He was a devoted and loving husband and father. He supported MaryJo in all of her endeavors and as for his children he coached Little League, never missed a dance recital, concert, school play, volleyball game or Karate Tournament. He loved working outdoors, especially in his yard, with his beloved 55 year old radio at his side. He loved nature and was a member of Fox Ridge Hunting Club.
The Honesdale community came to know him as a Councilman and Mayor. He spearheaded the grassroot effort to return the Stourbridge Line to Honesdale and was grateful to those who brought it to fruition. He was instrumental in acquiring the Veteran Administration (VA) Outpatient Clinic in Honesdale. He was recognized for his dedication to the community as the recipient of the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce 2013 Community Achievement Award.
In addition to MaryJo, he is survived by his daughter “MJ” (MaryJude) Siedsma and son in law Jeff; son “Tony” (Anthony Joseph); Grandchildren (who were the light of his life) Myles and Preston Siedsma. Sister Karen Thompson and husband Richard of Galeton, PA and sister, Linda Hunkins of Colorado. He was predeceased by his brother Louis Bishop and brother in law, Gerald Hunkins.
Jack was a gentleman and kind, in every sense of the word. To quote Fr. Bede Jarrett – “To be born a gentleman is an accident; to die one is an achievement”. Other things, then, I may not be able to help, but myself I can…the fact remains that I myself alone am responsible for my own character; for character is an artificial thing that is not born but made”. Thank you, Jack, for being you and sharing your love, life and faith with us….
Arrangements and cremation entrusted to Hessling Murray Funeral Home, 428 Main St.Honesdale. Visitation will take place on Friday, April 12, 2024 at the funeral home from 4 to 7. On Saturday, April 13, 2024 a Memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, Terrace St., Honesdale at 10 o’clock a.m. Interment, following mass, with Military Service at St. John the Evangelist Cemetery . Repast and Celebration of Life will immediately follow at a venue to be announced.
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