John Victor Bianco, 87
John Victor Bianco was born in Monrovia, Calif., on Aug. 11, 1922. He died Nov. 15 in Sandpoint, Idaho, at age 87. He was the oldest child of Matilda and Paride Bianco, who immigrated to California from northern Italy aboard ships that landed at Ellis Island.
During World War II, he fought honorably for his country in the U.S. Navy. John was proud of his service, despite losing hearing in one ear after being blow overboard into the Pacific Ocean. John married Stella Woody in 1948 and proudly welcomed their first child Robert Woody in 1949. Their much-loved daughter Melinda Lucille followed in 1953.
John’s life was colored by striving for excellence and a continual desire to improve. He placed importance on education and was an avid student and teacher. He worked as an aerospace and facilities engineer for Hughes Aircraft.
When he retired, he had more time to devote to his many hobbies. His talents stretched from growing lemons and pomegranates to tending a formidable collection of bonsai plants.
He also grew fabulous roses especially for Stella. But custom rod building, fly-tying and fly-fishing were truly his passion. He ran John’s Custom Fishing Tackle from his garage for nearly 50 years and was recognized as a Master Fly Caster. John lived life fully — he loved great food, good wine and his many friends.
For more than 50 years, John, Stella and Melinda hauled their trailer to June Lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, where they fished, rode horses and even had a few bear encounters. John loved the high mountain lakes and of course, the trout.
His creations were sought-after by many friends and customers. Many of his flies were very successful, for example, Gladiator. Until recently, he was creating new flies, including the popular Clark Fork. John ran a fly-casting clinic at the Bonner County Fair and taught a bonsai class at the University of Idaho Extension program. He was exceptionally generous with flies, knowledge and everything else.
John and Stella were accomplished ballroom dancers, attending dinner dances with friends for many years. As a couple, they were involved in the Shriners organization, in California and Idaho. In 2001, John, Stella and Melinda moved to Sandpoint to be closer to family. John was a loving Grandfather whose many kindnesses will not be forgotten.
John was preceded in death in September by his beloved wife of 61 years, Stella. He is survived by his siblings; Pierina Pascolati, Enrico Bianco and Yolanda Gilbert, all in California. He also leaves behind his son Robert (Robin) Bianco and his daughter Melinda of Sandpoint. He will be missed by his granddaughters Meyla Bianco Johnston (Jared) and Brooke (Josh) Stebbins and his two great grandsons, Owen and Lucas Stebbins.