John Gary Bandell

Funeral services for John Gary Bandell, 85, will be held on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home, 2201 Airline Dr., Bossier City, Louisiana. Burial will follow at Forest Park-St—Vincent in Shreveport, Louisiana. A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Officiating the service will be Pastor Jeffery Harper.

John was born on December 23, 1938 to Forest Earnest Bandell and Beatrice O. Kersting Bandell in Black River Falls, Wisconsin and passed away on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 in Shreveport, Louisiana.
 
 John's journey was marked by his unwavering commitment to his family. After graduating high school, he pursued a higher education in Madison, Wisconsin. Following his academic pursuits, he decided to join the United States Air Force. John's military career was defined by dedication and a desire to serve his country. Despite not being fond of guns, he chose the United States Air Force and served in various locations including Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma, Libya, Vietnam, and Ramstein Germany before retiring at Barksdale Air Force Base.
 
 While stationed at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma, John met the love of his life, Linda Corley. A beautiful chapter in their love story unfolded when he proposed to her at her prom. Together they were blessed with two children, Dorothy and John. Their adventures took them across Europe during John's deployment in Ramstein Germany. Family was always at the center of John's universe. He cherished every moment spent with Linda and their children. The arrival of grandchildren brought immeasurable joy to his heart.
 
 A man of many talents, John found purpose even after retirement. He learned how to repair TVs and vacuum cleaners while also devoting his time to volunteering at the VA hospital. His kindness extended beyond his immediate family; he touched the lives of many with his generosity.
 
 In 2017, John faced a profound loss with the passing of his beloved wife Linda. Nevertheless, he found solace in witnessing the growth of his great-grandchildren—his legacy living on through the generations he held dear.
 
 John Gary Bandell will be remembered as a humble soul who exemplified love and selflessness in all aspects of life. His presence will be deeply missed by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

John is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Beverly Gibb and Donna Bandell, and brother, Billy Bandell. He is survived by his daughter, Dorothy Bandell; son, John Bandell, Jr.; ten grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Honoring John as pallbearers will be Justine Howe, Elijah Howe, Chris Bandell, Angelo Perez, Connor Bandell and John Bandell, Jr. Serving as an honorary pallbearer will be Charles Clark.