At age 84, John went to be with the Lord on Wednesday January 11, 2006. He was born on June 19, 1921 in Spokane, Washington. He grew up in a loving family with four sisters and three brothers. John graduated from Lewis and Clark High School and a year later enlisted in the Navy. He served three years aboard the Carter Hall in the South Pacific.
Upon returning from military service, he attended WSU, earning a Bachelor's of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. While attending the University, he met and married Gloria Bellingar. After graduation, the moved to Seattle where he was employed by Boeing. He retired after 31 years as a Boeing Engineer.
John always enjoyed time spent with their 2 children, Barbara and Broan. He also liked hiking, camping and tinkering in his shop. He was always willing to help others. John played an active role in the West Seattle Kiwanis club for many years. His favorite project was building adaptive equipment (bicycles) for Special Needs students in the area. He was also a math and reading tutor for 4th and 5th graders. One of his other interests was his affiliation with the Fauntleroy YMCA and Camp Colman. He was involved in Indian Guides, helped with camp maintenance as well as being a camp counselor. John and Gloria had a passion for travel and enjoyed many trips wit the family. They loved new adventures and explored all seven continents.
John is survived by his wife of 57 years, Gloria, his daughter Barbara Rusch, husband Karll along with their children, Emily and Cory; son Brian, wife Teri; sister Irene Albro, brother Pee Bang; and brother-in-law Ben Blair.
The family wishes to acknowledge the excellent care provided by Dr. Denis Hom and Dr. Ben Chue of the Cancer Treatment and Wellness center and all their staff. In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory are suggested to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center or a charity of your choice.
Memorial Services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, January 21,2006 at Fauntleroy Community Church.