Mr. John Joseph Bond, Sr., 59, of Goshen, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 30, 2025, at 11:41 a.m. at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, following a long and courageous battle with an extended illness.

Born on March 16, 1966, in Dubuque, Iowa, John was the beloved son of Ronald D. (Patricia Carr) Bond of Union, Michigan, and the late Shirley Mae (Evans) Bond. His soul was forged in the heart of the Midwest, where he grew up surrounded by rolling rivers, wooded trails, and a strong work ethic that would define his life.

On February 21, 2003, John married the love of his life, Rebecca J. Davis, in Goshen. Theirs was a love story born over drinks and spark of connection that quickly turned into a "bond" that would carry them through over two decades of laughter, challenges, music, and memories. (See what we did there?)

John is lovingly remembered by his children: daughters Elizabeth "Liz" Love Bond of Goshen and Natasha Bond of Colorado, and sons Tyler Bond of Mishawaka and John J. Bond, Jr. of Elkhart. He is also survived by his brothers Bill (Leanna) Bond of Dubuque, Iowa, and James (Kelly) Bond of Helena, Montana; his sister Lisa (Daniel Bresien) Bond of Bryan, Texas; his treasured grandchildren; and a wide circle of extended family, longtime friends, bandmates, and loyal feline companions who adored him.

A memorial service in honor of John's life was recently held at Crossroads Community Church in Goshen, where he had worshipped, played music, and served with heart and soul. Cremation has taken place per his wishes, and a private family gathering is planned for later this summer to honor him in one of his favorite places—outdoors.

John Bond was a man of many layers—like the rings of an old oak tree—each one telling a story.

He was a gifted taxidermist, working for many years alongside his father, Ron, at the family business, Ron's Taxidermy. While they could mount nearly anything under the sun, John was especially revered for his fish and deer work. He had a painter's touch and a hunter's eye, masterfully restoring each piece with vivid color, texture, and lifelike presence. To John, each mount told a story—of a chase, a moment, a memory—and he honored each one with care and craftsmanship that made him truly stand out in his field.

But John was never more alive than when he was outside, breathing in the fresh air and soaking up the sun or rain or snow—whatever the sky was offering that day. Whether he was gliding silently through a lake in his kayak or canoe, setting up camp deep in the woods, hiking off the beaten path, casting a line with hopes of a fish tale, or bowhunting in the early morning quiet, John was fully in his element. Nature wasn't just a hobby for him—it was his sanctuary, his classroom, and his playground.

Of course, it would be impossible to talk about John without talking about his music.

With his signature flowing red hair (which he wore like a badge of rock 'n' roll honor), his rugged good looks, and his electric guitar slung low, John looked every bit the part of a traveling musician. And play he did—often and well. He had a raw, soulful style and could make his guitar sing, growl, cry, and praise all at once. He played in bands, at gigs, and with friends, but his favorite stage by far was the one that mattered most—at church. Every Sunday, rain or shine, you'd find John rocking out on the worship team at Crossroads Community Church, giving his all through three services.

It wasn't about applause. It was about heart. About faith. About using his gifts to glorify God. And yes—he had the callouses and the blisters to prove it. He often joked, channeling his inner Beatle, "I've got blisters on me fingers!" after a long day of praise and worship.

At home, John was the heartbeat of his family. A devoted husband, a proud dad, a doting grandfather, and a self-proclaimed "cat-daddy," John brought a special kind of energy to every room. He was the guy who could fix just about anything (usually with a little duct tape and a lot of confidence) or crack a joke at just the right time to lift spirits and lighten moods. Rumor has it that his housecats had veto power over his Sunday setlists—and John, being a cat-loving gentleman, didn't argue with their decisions.

Those who knew John will remember his stubborn streak, his deep well of love, his talent, his quiet strength, his laugh, and the way he could light up a room with nothing but a grin and a power chord. He lived his life with grit, grace, faith, and a fierce love for all things wild, musical, and true.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial donations be made to Crossroads Community Church, 57415 Alpha Drive, Goshen, Indiana 46526—a place where John gave so much of his heart and talent.

Rest easy, John. Your spirit plays on in the rivers you fished, the trails you hiked, the chords you struck, and the hearts you touched. Rock on, and Godspeed.