John E. “T.C. John” Bailey, age 59, passed away suddenly on July 19, 2014, in Bundy, while doing what he loved, serving his customers.
John was born on May 13, 1955, in Rhinelander to Olen and Nettie (Johnson) Bailey. He graduated from Rhinelander High School in 1973, then attended Lakeland College, UW Marathon, and Nicolet College. John worked at Montgomery Wards, first in Rhinelander, then in St. Paul, MN while also managing and tending bar at various establishments. He returned to Rhinelander in November 1987. In partnership with his sister, Sally, John opened Bailey’s Town and Country Inn in “Beautiful Downtown Bundy,” which he owned and operated at the time of his death.
John was a past president of the Oneida County Tavern League, a founder of OCTL Safe Ride Home, past president of Hodag Sno-Trails, and was a member of numerous ATV clubs. He generously supported many causes with his time and donations.
Harrison Township has lost a fair and just Chairman, as well as the Lincoln County Board of Supervisors.
Of his many interests, ATV riding on Tuesdays with his buddies was at the top of his list. Deer hunting last year with nieces and nephews was greatly enjoyed by all, who thought of him as a king for the trophy deer he found for their hunt. Another of his great joys were the small children who gravitated toward him; many, now parents with kids of their own, who held their arms open to him.
John is survived by his brothers, Art (Judy) Bailey of Sonora, CA and Lt. Col. Roger (Saundra) Bailey of New Lisbon, WI and his sisters, Evelyn Peter, Ann (Dr. Louis) Gorz, and Sally Bailey all of Rhinelander, and Barbara Lloyd of Westminster, CO. He is further survived by nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind customers who became good friends, his special ATV buddy, Davey, and so many more.
John was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Betty Jensen.
Family and friends will gather for a celebration of John’s life on Sat., July 26, 2014, from 1-4 p.m. at Bailey’s Town and Country Inn in “Beautiful Downtown Bundy”. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, the family suggests support of a memorial that has been established in John’s name.
John will be greatly missed by all who knew him and his fun-loving sense of humor and caring soul most of all…Love ya!
Carlson Funeral Home (715-369-1414) of Rhinelander is assisting the family with arrangements and condolences may be forwarded at www.carlsonfh.com.