Dr. John Michael Hardin

Dr. John Michael Hardin, age 41, of Bentonville passed away Wednesday, March 9, 2022 in Bentonville. He was born November 28, 1980, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas the son of Drs. John David and Sara Gomez Hardin. He was raised in Pine Bluff where he attended elementary school through High School. He was a music enthusiast playing guitar, was accomplished in martial arts and had a passion for computer science and technology. John Michael graduated from Pine Bluff High School with the class of 1999 and continued his studies at Hendrix College where he earned a degree in Biology. He went on to medical school at Oklahoma State University Tulsa where he obtained his Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine. Working in medicine was a calling for Dr. Hardin specifically in the field of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Most recently, he worked as a Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Physician and he was the Medical Director Of Everest Rehabilitation Hospital in Rogers, AR.

John Michael met Allison Tremor in Junior High through a mutual friend and they became acquainted. They remained in contact through high school but it wasn’t until college that their love story began. The two were married June 18, 2005 in Tulsa, OK and were blessed with two daughters Jenna Marie and Jillian Bree. His family was the center of his world. They enjoyed quality time together watching movies, eating out, and browsing their favorite stores.

In addition to serving patients, John Michael loved photography, wood working, playing ping pong, collecting watches and photo editing. He also connected on many levels with the superhero character Captain America. Whether it was his Captain America tattoo, costume or hoodie he was inspired by this superhero who was an overcomer who accomplished so much yet had no actual super powers. He would often take his Captain America shield to visit pediatric patients battling cancer to brighten their day. This represents who John Michael was to the core.

He loved people and people loved him. John Michael’s smile would light up every room he entered and he loved making Dad jokes. Family gatherings were something he always looked forward to. As a medical doctor, John Michael was a leader when it came to patient satisfaction. Although he never wanted recognition, he was number one among his peers. Patients appreciated the quality time he spent with him, his compassion towards others and his natural ability to establish a connection. He used his personal journey overcoming trials and tribulations to inspire others to achieve their rehab goals.

John Michael chose these heartfelt words for his facebook profile: “Just a simple man, with a wonderful family and three princesses: two call me Daddy and one married me :-)”

John Michael is preceded in death by his father Dr. John David Hardin.
He is survived by his wife of 16 years Allison Hardin; daughters Jenna and Jillian; mother Dr. Sara Gomez Hardin; sister Dr. Sara Maria McCoy and husband Mike; sister Dr. Vanessa Branch and husband Dr. Drake Branch; nieces and nephews Mathew, Nicholas, Ellie and Harrison; beloved aunt Dr. Martha Adams; cousin Chris Dow and a host of extended relatives, colleagues and friends.