John S. Speakman, age 81 of Gilbertsville, Kentucky passed into heaven to the waiting arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on July 5th, 2018, after a brief illness.John was born in Salem, Indiana December 7,1936 to O.J. Speakman and Carleen (Williams) Speakman. He lived most of his life in Bowling Green, Kentucky where he owned several local businesses, most notably Speakman Electric, which he operated for 35 years.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, motorcycles and cooking for crowds of friends. During his life, John was involved in Jaycees, Soap Box Derby, and was a former member of the Masonic Lodge #73. John was also honored as a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow in 2004.
John was preceded in death by his wife Julie (Harkins) Speakman, his parents, a brother Jimmy, and sister Jewel Dean Harlow.
Survivors include his daughter Johnnie F. Leonhardt, son in law Kris Leonhardt; grandchildren Sarah Davis (Brad), Mark Leonhardt (Stephanie) and Audrey Simonton (Michael); 5 great grandchildren, all residing in northern Ohio. He is also survived by sister Blakie Miller and several nieces & nephews.
The family plans to celebrate John’s life at a gathering of friends to be held Saturday, August 11th, 2:00 pm in the lodge at Moors Resort and Marina, 570 Moors Rd, Gilbertsville, KY. No other visitation or funeral services are planned.
Memorial contributions can be made to either Hillview Heights Church, Bowling Green KY, or The Humane Society of Marshall County, Benton, KY. Collier Funeral Home in Benton is handling arrangements. Condolences can sent to: www.collierfuneralhome.com