FOX, John R.

John R. Fox, 86, entered into rest on January 24, 2006. Born in New York on June 19, 1919, Mr. Fox moved his family to Arizona in 1959. John worked as a designer and jeweler all his life and won numerous awards with his talents. He designed and created numerous logos for valley businesses as well as specialty items such as Evel Knievel's cane tip and ring. In 1979 he won the National Diamond Design contest and was flown to New York to receive this coveted award. He owned and operated John Fox Jewelers in downtown Scottsdale until his retirement in 1985. A founding member of the Scottsdale Elks Lodge 2148, he loved traveling, hiking and camping. He was also a Mason. He offered himself to charity work and loved to make people smile with his gentleness and quick wit. He was also an active member of the Ahwatukee Recreation Center. There he belonged to any club that would expand his many artistic talents. He carved wood and alabaster, painted and taught others to make jewelry. A friend to all, he was kind and loving. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years Irene, daughters Linda Pratt of Virginia Beach and Janet Fox Hall of Mesa. Grandchildren P.J. Pratt and Tammy Lane and her husband Mark. Great grandsons Phillip, P.J. III and Matthew. He is preceded in death by sons-in-law Phillip Pratt and Glenn Hall. Memorial services were held on Monday, January 30, 2006 at Ahwatukee Recreation Center, 5001 E. Cheyenne Dr., Phoenix, AZ. Published in The Arizona Republic on 1/29/2006.