John E. Bayha Jr. lost his battle with prostate cancer on July 8, 2010. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He will be remembered for his outgoing and spicy personality.

He was born in St. Louis, Mo. on July 15, 1935. During his senior year he moved to Dupo, Ill. After high school he was drafted into the Army for two years.

He met his wife when she was life guarding at Miller Sylvania State Park. They settled into married life. Jack began working at North City Lumber in Seattle. He was reactivated into the Army in 1961, shortly after the birth of their oldest daughter Kerry. After his stint in the Army he returned to North City Lumber where he became a partner.

In 1972 he purchased a lumber yard on Whidbey Island. Lumber “Jack’s” thrived due to his hard work and tireless efforts. He sold Lumber “Jack’s” in 1992, and started his farming adventure in Ellensburg (some retirement).

Jack enjoyed sports and kids. He gave limitless backing to both sports and horse 4-H. On Whidbey he was know as “Lumber Jack.” This support continued when he moved to Eastern Washington where he became known as “Grandpa Jack” to his own grandkids as well as countless others.

He was preceded in death by his parents John and Helen Bayha. He is survived by his wife Judy; his daughter Kerry Neubauer; his daughter Julie Baugher and her husband Tink, their two children Carson and Callie; his son Dan Bayha and his wife Sandy, their three children Shelby, Hanna, and Hayden; his wiener dog Maggie; his brother Allan and his wife Rose Marie, and their four children.

There will be a celebration of his life from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 24 in the Kittitas Secondary School commons. Bring any potluck dish and story you would like to share. Jack’s wishes were for everyone to have a party.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Foundation at KVCH Nurses Fund, 603 S. Chestnut St., Ellensburg, WA 98926. The care that he received was such a comfort to both Jack and family alike.