(KAIR)--A longtime, well known Atchison businessman and community leader has died.

John H. Mize, Jr. was 84 at the time of his death Sunday following a short illness.

According to his obituary, Mize, in 1962, returned to Atchison, following his time spent as a medic in the United States Air Force Reserves, to take the helm of the Blish-Mize Company as the fourth-generation leader. Most recently, Mize served as Chairman of the Board.

It was during his time as President and CEO of the Blish-Mize Company that Mize "helped keep the small-town industry alive through the businesses success," as his obituary states.

All totaled, Mize spent over 50-years working for the company.

Among his numerous other roles of leadership, including serving as an Advisory Member of the United States Chamber of Commerce, Mize served as a board member of the Kansas State Chamber of Commerce, the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce, and numerous hardware-related boards, as well as serving as a member of the Board of Directors of UMB Financial Corporation. Additionally, Mize was a Trustee and Foundation Member of the Atchison Family YMCA, and served as Co-Trustee for the Courtney S. Turner Trust, among other roles of leadership.

Mize was a member of the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce's Hall of Fame, becoming the sixth inductee to receive the honor.

He leaves behind his wife of 56-years, Cheryl Larkin Mize, as well as his son, Jonathan Mize, his daughter, Blish Mize Connor, and a sister, Courtney Laurie.

Mize, a noted fan of KU basketball, will be remembered during a service later this week, with a celebration with his family and friends planned for Friday morning, from 9:30 to 11:00, at the Atchison Event Center.