John C. Rearden, 80

John C. Rearden, 80, passed away at North Idaho Advance Care Hospital in Post Falls on Friday, Sept. 25, 2010. He was born May 7, 1930, in Leominister, Mass., to Clark and Bessie Rearden. After graduation in 1948, John spent his first summer in Coeur d'Alene working for the U.S. Forest Service in the Blister Rust Program. That fall he joined the U.S. Army with promises of going to Alaska. The military had other plans and sent him to Japan. His division, the 7th Infantry, 32nd Regiment served in the Korean War.

In the spring of 1952, upon being honorably discharged, he was drawn back to beautiful northern Idaho. By the fall of 1954, he made a permanent move to Coeur d'Alene. He was a well known bartender, having worked at Tony's Supper Club for 35 plus years and later at Wolf Lodge Steakhouse.

John loved his "pride and joy" Mike and Lisa; his dogs; the great outdoors; camping, fishing and history. We will always remember John for his ease in making friends and his quick wit.

John is survived by his sister, Kathryn Nickerson of Hayden Lake; his son Michael (Barbara) and daughter Lisa (Thomas) both of Post Falls. He has five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, an extended family and many friends. The family wishes to express their gratitude to Kootenai Medical Center and North Idaho Advance Care Hospital for their loving care.

The memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 30, 2010, at Yates Funeral Home, Coeur d'Alene Chapel. Please visit John's online memorial and sign his guest book at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.