John Edward Foster, age 98 of Leitchfield, KY, passed away Sunday, (November 16, 2014) at the Beehive Home of Grayson County.

He was born on April 27, 1916 in Louisville, KY, the son of the late Mary Irene Scales Foster and Theodore D Foster.

He joined the Marine Corps in 1942. After basic training at Paris Island, SC, he served in the Pacific at Pearl Harbor, Guam, Saipan, and Okinawa. After spending time in Japan and China, he was honorably discharged following four years of service; He was a member of the Leitchfield First Baptist Church, charter member of Leitchfield Lion's Club, Masonic Lodge and American Legion post 81. He was one of the earliest entrants into the propane gas industry, founding Fosters Bottle Gas in 1948 and John E Foster and Son in 1969.

He is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Elza E. (Buddy) Foster and Pat of Leitchfield, three grandchildren, Lynn (Stephen) Thornhill of Hardinsburg, KY, Lori (Tommy) Manion of Clarkson, KY and Eric E Foster of Leitchfield, six great grandchildren, John Douglas, Claire and William Thornhill, Blake, Cole and Grant Manion.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Vinnie Fentress Foster and a great-grandson, James Frederick Thornhill.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, (November 21, 2014) at the Dermitt Funeral Home. Bro. Doug King will be officiating. Burial will be in the Shady Grove Cemetery at Falls of Rough, KY.

Visitation will be at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday and from 9:00 a.m. Friday until time of services.

Memorial Expressions may be made to the First Baptist Church or charity of your choice.