John Abenoja Estocapio

John Estocapio, a loving, caring, gregarious husband, father, grandparent, uncle, and friend passed away on October 9, 2022. John left a lasting impression on all those he touched and will be remembered fondly for his great sense of humor, infectious smile and zest for life. John could often be found right at home in the middle of any group gathering and was the life of the party, especially to those lucky enough to call him family. John’s tight-knit immediate family includes his beloved wife Paula, their son Phillip, daughter in law Amanda, and two beautiful grandchildren, Tala Jade and Gabriel John Paul.

John was born in Bremerton, WA where his father was stationed while in the U.S. Navy. The family also lived for a short time in San Diego, CA and Japan before moving to Seattle, where John grew up on Queen Anne Hill. John attended St. Margaret’s Grade School, McClure Junior High School, and Queen Anne High School.

Shortly after high school, John met the love of his life Paula Whaley. He wooed her away from another suitor and won her love and affection. They married in October 1979 and their son Phillip was born in 1991. They lived in Queen Anne, Wallingford, and the Tri-Cities before settling in the Green Lake area.

John and Paula loved travel and outdoor activities. Skiing held a special place as they took a ski vacation to Austria and later regularly visited Whistler, BC. They often traveled to Hawaii to enjoy beach time and explore the islands. Over the years they also visited Europe, India, Malaysia, Mexico, and the Caribbean, in addition to plenty of local trips for camping, fishing, golfing, and general exploration.

John took great pride in being an amazing father to Phillip. He coached Phillip’s baseball, basketball, and soccer teams and they attended many Seahawks games. John assisted Phillip with projects and never missed a chance to spend time together.

In his later years John’s devotion and attention extended to his two young grandchildren, Tala Jade and Gabriel John Paul. Tala Jade and John (her Bapa) shared a special bond. Every morning Tala Jade would ask to go see her Bapa and they loved taking naps and watering the plants together. His final days were spent with smiles and kisses with his “Tala Baby,” which meant the world to him.

John had great relationships with his extended family. They spent a lot of time together, from cut throat pickup basketball in the driveway to family reunion gatherings at the beach in Westport. John was very enjoyable to be around and on all of his travels, no matter how far from home, John always seemed to run into someone he knew.

John was preceded in death by his parents Melecio Sr. and Agustina (Connie). He is survived by his brother Melecio Jr. (Sonny), his wife Paula, his son Phillip, daughter in law Amanda and two beautiful grandchildren, Tala Jade and Gabriel John Paul.

In addition to immediate family, John will be loved and missed by many nieces, nephews, and in-laws including: Melinda (Brad) Amelsberg, Brian (Julie) Estocapio, Trenton Estocapio, Nick Fadich, Colleen Whaley, Shannon Fadich, John Whaley, Sarah Whaley, Tim Whaley, Danielle Whaley, Patrick Whaley, Paul Whaley, Rob Whaley, Teresa Whaley, Aidan Whaley, Elise Whaley, and Lila Whaley.

There will be a visitation on Friday, October 21 at 6:00 pm at Butterworth Funeral Home, 520 West Raye Street, Seattle. A Celebration Of John’s Life will be held on Saturday, October 29, at 11:00 am also at Butterworth Funeral Home. The Celebration will be followed by a burial at Evergreen Washelli Memorial Park.

Remembrances may be sent to Swedish Cancer Institute.

All are welcome to sign the online guestbook below and add any messages or stories for the Estocapio family.