John J. Bakalekos

John J. Bakalekos, of North Little Rock, Arkansas went home to be with the Lord on July 5, 2010. He was the son of Mike and Mary Bakalekos. John was a loving husband to his wife Lavern Bakalekos of 65 years and a dedicated father to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He served his country for 23 years as a seargent First Class in the Army Reserve. After 27 years of dedicated service as a LPN he retired from the V.A. hospital. He was a member of Park Hill Baptist Church and also served as a deacon. John was actively involved in the lives of his children and community through coaching Tiny League, Little League, and Pony League at Burns Park along with creating new fields at Burns Park. All through his life John never encountered a stranger, he enjoyed the sport of fishing, was a celebrated ballroom dancer, and just simply loved the outdoors. He was also an avid and dedicated Razorback fan. John loved and led his family everyday with his spiritual inspiration. He is survived by his wife Laverne Bakalekos of North Little Rock; sister, Bessie Martin; brothers, Jim and Mike Bakalekos; his children include John Bakalekos, Gail Williams, Robert Bakalekos, Chris Bakalekos and Darla Hichborn. John is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mike and Mary Bakalekos and two sisters, Helen Mays and Lee Martin. His family and friends will always love and remember John as a strong, kind, and loving man. Please make all memorial donations to Park Hill Baptist Church, 201 East "C" Street, North Little Rock, Arkansas 72116. Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m., Friday in the North Little Rock Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be in Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home, 1921 Main St., 758-1170. Online obituary and guest registry at www.nlrfh.com.