John Vise
John Vise, 40, passed away in Chattanooga, Tennessee in late August of 2023.
He was born as Gabriel Michael Fink in Columbia City, In., on Feb. 24, 1983, born to Arthur K. and Denise (Forwalter) Fink. Gabe was confirmed at Congregation Beth Aaron in Billings, Mt., but continued to evolve, developing a broad spirituality.
Gabe attended at Savannah College of Art and Design, and then Green Mountain College where he studied journalism. He used his writing skills to contribute to science fiction and fantasy books, but found the publishing industry frustrating. He decided to reinvent himself, moving to New Orleans where he worked at Bloody Bourbon House, and became John Vise, the creator of Bronze Beasties, selling his artwork at shows across the country.
John moved to Chattanooga, where he could easily travel to art shows, and also showed regularly at the Chattanooga River Market. He had many close friends in both Chattanooga and New Orleans and was well respected in the art community.
Gabe was preceded in death by his father and a nephew. He is survived by his mother, his sister Alexandria Zadock and ex brother-in-law Matthew Fisher, as well as multiple nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles, and one great uncle.
John’s ashes will be interred with his grandparents in the Mausoleum at the First Unitarian Church in Chicago. There are no formal services planned; however, friends are encouraged to celebrate his life in ways they see fit: sharing memories, cherishing his artwork, and by acknowledging how he touched so many people with his intellect, his art, and his friendship.