John Edward Bosch, Sr, longtime resident of Gorham, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, October 9, 2011, the day before his 88th birthday.

On October 10, 1923, Johnny was born to Lizzie and John Bosch at home on the farm where his parents homesteaded south of Gorham.  He was the youngest of five children that included brothers, Lawrence, Paul, and Robert; and sister, Helen.

During WWII Johnny served his country in the European theater as a member of the Army Medical Corps.  He met his future wife, Gwendolyn Briley Bosch, while training at Brownwood, Texas.  After the war, they settled in Gorham where they raised their sons, John and James.

Johnny took great pleasure in working the land and taking care of his cattle.  He was one of those fortunate men who was able to combine his passion and his livelihood.  An innovative and creative man, Johnny was known for being able to fix anything with a pair of pliers and piece of baling wire.  He was most at peace while watching his cattle graze against the backdrop of a Kansas sunset.  Johnny was proud to be a Kansas farmer and rancher.
Johnny also served his Gorham community as a former City Councilman and as a longtime volunteer firefighter.  He and Gwen were founding members of the Gorham Community Church.  He was also a proud member of the VFW.

Johnny was predeceased by his wife of 50 years, Gwen; infant daughter, Debra Diane; his parents, brothers and sister.

He is survived by his son, John and wife Nancy; his son James; and his grandchildren, Nathan and Amy Bosch.

Celebration of Johnny’s Life will be held at 10:00 AM Wednesday, October 12, 2011 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell with Pastor John Thompson officiating.  Burial will follow in the Prairie Lawn Cemetery in Gorham, Kansas where military rites will be conducted by the Russell V.F.W. Post #6240 Honor Guard.  Visitation will be from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary with the family present to greet friends from 6 PM to 7 PM.  In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established with the RecognizeGood Foundation/GCDA Park Fund.  Contributions and condolences may be sent in care of Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary * 610 N. Maple * Russell, KS  67665.  Pohlman-Varner-Peeler Mortuary of Russell is in charge of these arrangements.