ALBION — John P. Barcus, 69, passed peacefully at home, on June 18, 2022, after a lifelong battle with Von Hippel-Lindau disease. He was surrounded by his wife, daughters, and faithful puppy, Cookie.
Born in Carroll County, Kentucky, he lived most of his life between Mishawaka, Fort Wayne, and Albion, Indiana. Lovingly known by many as Papa John, he married the love of his life, Marilyn, nearly 45 years ago. Together they raised three girls, Jennifer, Ericka, and Amanda. He took great pride in teaching them how to be tough, yet kind — a subject he beautifully mastered. A proud veteran of the United States Marines, he thrived on order and perfection — but never let that stop him from fully loving his forgetful, messy and chaotic family.
He had never met an animal he didn't love and spent much of his life caring for and protecting animals of all types. He enjoyed fishing, working in his yard, and old westerns. His wit was unmatched, and he could always find humor in a situation. Always one to go above and beyond for those he loved, his loyalty and genuine kindness will be missed the most.
He is survived by his wife, daughters, and grandchildren Julio, Alicia, and Aaliyah, and one surviving sibling, Jayne Marcum of Brookville, Indiana. He is deeply loved and missed by an abundance of adoring family members.
He is preceded in death by an equal abundance of loving family, many of whom lost the battle with VHL themselves.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 25, 2022 at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 210 N. Orange St., Albion, with family and friends gathering from 10 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday. Burial with military honors will be at Rose Hill Cemetery following the memorial service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the VHL Alliance, www.VHL.org.
To leave a condolence or sign the online guestbook, visit www.harperfuneralhomes.com.
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