I know firsthand the quality craftsmanship of John’s tile work. While I had self taught tile experience, working with him increased my knowledge and skills to a very high standard. On every job I ask myself, “What would John do?” Today after the funeral, I went back to the job and thought “If he could see this he’d be proud.” He was a very good teacher and I will always be grateful for the opportunity to work with him and carry on a tradition of excellence.

John and Landie are two of a handful of people who introduced me to the real Jesus. You guys showed me every day in small, simple, every day ways what it looks like to be a true believer -  to follow our Lord every day, every moment (even in the ones where we stumble - perhaps especially then), no matter what. You welcomed me as one of your own - just as you did with everyone who crossed your path. You accepted me exactly as I was, and patiently, graciously, walked alongside me as God healed my hot mess. You did not pretend to be perfect - you were always genuine in every way. You never even once "gently" called me out or "corrected" me - you simply loved me, accepted me and practiced what it means to "bear with" one another. I am deeply humbled every time I think of it. May God help me be more like you - for then I will be more like Jesus, because that is Who you were reflecting into my life!

Christianity is not merely a religion for you at all. Every day, every moment you both have displayed what a relationship with Christ really looks like. I have no doubt that the first thing John heard upon entering heaven, were these words, "Well done, you good and faithful servant." What an example and inspiration to all of us!

I can only imagine the hole John has left in your lives, Landie and Rachel - and the rest of his family, friends and many others. While I have no doubt that you rejoice that he is no longer in pain and running free, the ache of the space he has left behind is impossible to comfort with words. The last time John and I messaged, he asked me to pray that he would finish strong and pour as much of Jesus as possible into the lives of his grandchildren. I trust those prayers were answered abundantly - and the legacy he leaves behind will continue to bless your family for generations to come. My prayers will continue to be with you; that the Lord will comfort you with His peace that transcends understanding. 

Love you guys. ~ Lydia Dartt

I had the privilege of working with John at The Beckett Event Center and at The Gateway Prayer Garden, and all the other projects that happened.  Any question I knew I could bring all the cameras, wires and John would be able to tell me why in the heck they were not working. He was inventive, imaginative and always kind. He shared the coolest videos of amazing things at lunch. But his love for God,  the bible and  church John words have forever changed me. I admired you in life and will forever admire and miss you John, my friend, and my co worker .  

I am grateful to have met Landie and John in Phoenix. God had us connect on our journey at Calvary Community Church when it was small and in a school across the street from their house.  John helped me out by working on my car one time. John and Landie always had smiles on their face and were always loving to me over the years. We lost contact yet reconnected on Facebook. John always shared about his belief in our Savior, Jesus and shared many topics. When he would comment on my page a couple people would want to debate him. John stood with his belief. My heart breaks to lose him as his friend and I miss his posts and comments. My condolences to Landie, her children, grandchildren and all of John’s family and friends.🙏🏽I celebrate John’s life and his arrival in heaven with his Savior, his new body and that he is dancing in heaven pain free! Agape 💜Kimmy 

John is a unique soul who lives today through his trust in the Savior. His one of a kind outlook on a dark world challenged people who knew him to think; really think.  His humble outlook always sized this world up for what it is; a training ground for a higher kingdom where the lowliest may abide, but only on God's terms and conditions.  John brought the same sense of humor to friendships that he must be bringing to his new friends in heaven. Only the truly joyful can laugh when everyone else cries. John accepted the truth at face value and reflected it back to broken people. He is most assuredly busy, but will also make time to show you around if you choose to join him in eternity. Meanwhile, may we, his friends and family all attain the simple gratitude he gladly demonstrated while with us. See you on the other side my friend.

I remember John as a STRONG VOICE, a creative mind in home and Prayer Garden applications, and solid in his Christian convictions - valuable commodities in today's world.  It was a pleasure to partner with him at the Gateway Prayer Garden.

A fun day supporting our first responders . . .

We have so many memories of John and were always grateful for the amazing tile layer he was! My son Matthew used to watch him put tile down and have so many questions. He probably was a nuisance, but John was always so kind and patient with children.  We know that John's absence will be felt deeply by his family and friends. You are all loved and in our prayers. 

John's grace and humor will always be with me.   He was an inspiration to me and to others.  I wish your family peace.  He loved you all dearly.    

OBITUARY

John David Holgate

28 November, 1961 – 16 April, 2023

Mountain View Funeral & Cremation

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