John M. Fish, 74, passed away peacefully at Saratoga Hospital on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024 from complications related to Parkinson’s Disease.

Born on Jan. 12, 1950, in Fort Collins, Colorado, John was the son of the late Bernard Fish and Elvera (Abby) Nagy Fish.

Husband, Dad, PopPop, Teacher, Coach, Teammate and Friend were many of the names that John was known by throughout his life. He was a retired social studies teacher from Tupper Lake High School where he worked for 32 years. He coached many teams at the high school and community college level, ranging from basketball to soccer to ice hockey. He continued his love of sports by playing over-50 men’s basketball at the Saratoga YMCA and by encouraging his four grandchildren on the sidelines at their many athletic events.

After teaching, John was able to explore his love of music while working for 15 years at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. As the backstage security manager at SPAC, he enjoyed concerts from all music genres and earned the respect and friendship of performing artists big and small. He was an avid golfer, talented woodworker and go-to handyman for his family and friends. He put his knowledge of world history to good use on trips to Asia, Australia, Europe and South America — never forgetting to bring back a souvenir baseball hat to commemorate his travels. Always ready with a smile or helping hand, John was much loved by his family, friends and neighbors.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Linda T. Fish, and their two children: Matthew B. Fish (Colleen Cook Fish) and Rebecca L. Fish Boucher (Matthew Boucher). He also leaves behind cherished grandchildren: Simone Boucher, Adam Boucher, Merin Boucher and Troy Boucher; his sister, Ruth Fish Mason and brother, E. Roy Fish.

At the family’s request, there will be no formal services.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to either the American Parkinson’s Disease Association or The Michael J Fox Foundation in his memory.

For online condolences, visit www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.