John Edward Bach

John Edward Bach

Educator, Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, Husband, Friend, Mentor, Traveler

John Edward Bach, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, and friend, passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024, surrounded by his family following complications of dementia. He was 84 years old. John was cherished by all who knew him, and his legacy of love, wisdom, and selflessness will live on through the many lives he touched.

A lifelong resident of the Flint area, John was an integral part of the Flint School District for 38 years. He spent his entire teaching career at Potter Elementary School, where his passion for education and dedication to his students were evident. Whether in the classroom or out in the community, he was often recognized as "Mr. Bach" by former students and parents, a testament to the lasting impact he had on their lives.

Born in Flint on May 13, 1940, to Joseph and Florence (Clint) Bach, John graduated from St. Michael's Catholic High School in 1958. He entered the Catholic seminary for a few years before choosing a different path to become a teacher. He went on to earn his Bachelor's degree from Mount St. Mary’s of the West in Ohio and his Master's degree from Eastern Michigan University.

John’s first love, Donna Bayoff, became his wife in 1965. Together, they raised a family and spent nearly 38 wonderful years together before Donna’s sudden passing in 2003. In 2004, John met the second love of his life, Mary Alice (Kittel) O’Malley, and they shared many joyful years together.

An avid traveler, John spent many summers with his family exploring the United States in their 20-foot motor home, visiting most of the continental U.S. and several cities in Canada. He cherished these adventures, especially his frequent visits to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to be with family. Later in life, John and Mary Alice enjoyed winters in California and Florida, creating more memories in the warm sun. He was an avid movie fan and co-owned Video Update in downtown Grand Blanc in the 1980s. Following his retirement from teaching, John loved working with the children and animals at For-Mar Nature Preserve and Arboretum in Genesee County.

John was known for his selflessness, thoughtfulness, and generosity. Whether offering solicited or unsolicited advice or lending a helping hand, his caring nature touched everyone around him. He was the consummate teacher, always ready to offer wisdom and guidance. His family knew him as an outstanding father and husband, and his knowledge of trivia and knack for winding electrical cords became legendary. A man of humor and heart, John once won a trip to Cedar Point on a local TV show, Bowling for Dollars, for getting a spare.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Alice; his children, Amy (Matt) Gage and Matthew (Katie) Bach; step-grandson Jason (Ashley) Gage; grandchildren Zachary (Kris Kilgallon) Bach, Emily (James) Trowbridge, and great-grandchildren Emmett and Eleanor; his sister, Marian Chron; and numerous nieces and nephews. John also held a special place in his heart for Mary Alice’s family, who embraced him as their own, including her four daughters and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Donna, his sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and John Mazur, and his beloved mother-in-law, Prosia “Flossie” Bayoff.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to The Medical Team, hospice care providers, particularly Rachel and Lyndy, for their compassionate care during his final days.

A visitation for family and friends will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, December 14, 2024 followed by a Catholic Mass at 1 p.m. at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 1227 E. Bristol Road, Burton, MI 48529. Arrangements have been made by Sharp Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Genesee County Parks and Recreation, Nature Day Camp Scholarship Fund at For-Mar Nature Preserve and Arboretum.