ELKHART — John S. Fitch Sr., 62, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully following an extended illness at his home at 4:35 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2018.

He was born, in Goshen, Jan. 15, 1956, to the late George A. and Marjorie J. (Miller) Fitch, and later married Nola J. "Jeanne" Sharp in Elkhart in 1988, where she passed away in 2016.

Surviving are children Chasity (David) Enyeart, Aron (Natasha) Farrell, John Fitch Jr. and Cheyanna (Jeff Artley) Fitch; brother Kevin Fitch; sister Frankie (Greg) Price; five grandchildren; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and extended family.

A brother, Mike Fitch, preceded him in death.

Billings Funeral Home of Elkhart is honored to host John's celebration of life with a memorial visitation from 6 until 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place.

Pastor Rick Pirtle will host a brief prayer following the visitation.

John worked in the local RV industry for more than 40 years as an accomplished cabinet maker and woodworker.

He enjoyed fishing and bowling and continued on with his woodworking even after retirement.

Although John never minced his words and often spoke his mind, it was sure to be known that he loved his grandchildren deeply and that he was always at his best when he was cooking out, grilling or spending time with his friends and family.

Memorial donations may be given to the American Heart Association or the United Cancer Services of Elkhart County.