John Philip Bakelaar passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at his home on June 22, 2026, just shy of his 56th wedding anniversary on June 27, 2026. He turned 87 on June 10.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Philip and Vera (Nugent) Bakelaar and his brother, Robert Bakelaar.

John is survived by his wife, Barbara (Bush) Bakelaar; daughter, Anna (Robert) Gennrich; daughter, Joanie; grandchildren, Nicholas Mackey, Brianna Staples, Victoria Webster, Philip Staples, and Charles Staples; as well as 2 great-grandchildren. He was also attended by faithful canine companions, Eli and Aaron. Barbara, Joanie, Anna, Nicholas, Brianna and his two faithful dogs were present and cared for him in his last days and moments.

John grew up in Greenport, New York in the home his father built. He and his family later moved back there from 2020-2026. Between then and now, John lived and worked in Mountain City, TN, Douglasville, GA, Sharpsburg, GA and finally Loudon, TN from February to his last breath.

John was proud to be an Eagle Scout and enjoyed serving as an assistant scoutmaster to his grandson’s troop in Maryville. He was a veteran of the US Air Force as a Chaplain’s Assistant. Afterward, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Maryville College where he met his wife, Barbara. His next degree was a Master’s in Middle School Education from East Tennessee State University and then a Specialist in Education from West Georgia College.

John was a math teacher at Chapel Hill Middle School. He then became a Middle School Principal at Turner Middle School in Lithia Springs, GA.

In his free time, he enjoyed being by the water to boat, clam, or just watch the yachts go by. He also enjoyed gardening which was one of John’s favorite hobbies. He grew a lot of tomatoes and beans over the years.

John was a member of the United Methodist church and had recently transferred his membership to Oakland United Methodist Church in Greenback, TN.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Oakland United Methodist Church in Greenback, TN, 234 Trigonia Rd. Greenback, TN 37742.

John’s family would like to express their gratitude for the hospice workers and chaplain from UT Hospital, especially Sara, who supported them this month during this difficult time. They also want to express their gratitude to all who supported them spiritually and emotionally during this time.

John’s family invites you to celebrate his life at a special service 12:30 PM Monday, July 13, 2026, at East Tennessee Veterans Cemetery, 2200 East Gov. John Sevier Parkway, Knoxville, TN 37920.