John Bland

John Charles Bland died February 16, 2016, at his home in Alba, TX. He was born February 21, 1949, to Jim and Marie Bland in Richmond, VA. He graduated in 1966 from John Randolph Tucker High School where he earned the nickname “Bambi.” In 1971 John graduated from Pittsburg State University where he was a member of the Lamda Chi Alpha fraternity. He married Connie Conrod in Winfield, KS, in 1971.

John’s career in construction management began in Wichita, KS, with DeBoer Construction. He built a 35-year career in development with Pizza Hut. John and Connie enjoyed residences in Wichita; Atlanta, GA; Orange County, CA; and Dallas, TX. In 2009, John and Connie retired to Lake Fork, TX, where John pursued his love of fishing and collecting…almost everything.

John exhibited a unique Southern charm and a talent for a good story. His lasting friendships spanned the country. John’s infectious laugh and kind deeds have blessed all who called him friend.

John was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Connie of Alba, TX; his brother Todd Bland of Glen Allen, VA; sisters-in-law Becky Jack and Linda Groth (Bob) of Winfield, Karen Metz of Prairie Village, KS, David Conrod (Amy) of Marietta, GA; and much-loved cousins, nieces and nephews and their children.

A memorial service will be planned for a later date. Memorials have been established in John’s name with the Alba Volunteer Fire Dept., PO Box 197, Alba, TX 75410 and with the Cross Trail Outfitters of Texas Youth Hunting and Fishing Club, PO Box 1165, Helotes, TX 78023 or http://www.teamcto.org/texas. Arrangements made by Wilson-Bartley Funeral Home.