John F. Bedessem, of Bainbridge Island, died peacefully at home on Aug. 7. He was 76.

He was born on July 10, 1933 and was raised in La Crosse, Wis., graduating from Aquinas High School. He attended Notre Dame University and West Point Military Academy and graduated from Marquette University in Wisconsin in 1957 with a degree in accounting and finance. He worked in public accounting and insurance until his retirement, after which he established the largest organic orchard east of the Mississippi River.

He is survived by his wife of more than 40 years, Ruth; their children Michael J. (Lori) Bedessem, Jane Carpenter of Bainbridge Island and Kevin (Becky) Dobbs; grandchildren Erin (Ed) Schiltgen, Brendan Dillon, Dana, John M. and Joseph Bedessem, Linzie Dobbs and William and Ellen Carpenter; and great-granddaughter Leah Margarete Schiltgen.

Family and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Mass at 9 a.m. Sept. 26 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church. An online guest book is at www.cookfamilyfuneralhome.com.