John B. Icklone, Iii

John B. Icklone, III, 78, passed away on Thursday, August 18, 2016, after a short but hard fought battle with throat cancer.

John was a decorated Veteran of US Army (1958-1964), serving as an aircraft Crew Chief.  He received several letters of appreciation and acknowledgment from superior commanders, numerous ribbons and commendations, including the Amy Commendation Medal for rescuing two French nationals from drowning.  After his service, he returned to Lake Charles and began a career with Martin GMC, first as a mechanic and eventually directing Fleet Sales.  This was followed by executive positions with Browning-Ferris Industries, Inc. and Serv-Tech Specialties, Inc.  However, his heart was never far from his roots in mechanics and he eventually opened a gas station and garage where he could repair vehicles and pass along knowledge and skills to anyone who wanted to stop in for a visit. If it had an engine, he could repair or rebuild it.  He played hard, worked hard, was demanding, and, if you knew John, cantankerous was also a fitting description.  That being said, once he called you Friend, you could count on him to be there.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Lillie Belle and John B. Icklone, and sisters, Yvonne Manbeck, Martha Cunningham, and Georgette Henry. He is survived by his children, Michelle Icklone White and husband Matthew, John  B. Icklone, IV and wife Nealy, Donna Bright and Michael Bright; sisters, Patricia Melton and husband Walter, Jennifer Bellon and husband Charles; Fiancée, Johnnie “Bobo” Saucier; two grandchildren, several nieces and nephews along with a host of friends.

John chose to assist the advancement of science and medicine with the donation of his earthly remains.  As such, his request for no services will be honored.