John Francis Washington, 79, passed away on Saturday, February 15th, 2020 in Riviera, Texas, where he enjoyed snowbirding with his wife Margaret for the past three years. He was born in Rockford, Iowa to Martin and Marie (Schissel) Washington on January 16, 1941. A visitation will be held Sunday, February 23rd, from 5-7pm at Sunset Memorial, followed by the funeral on Monday, February 24th at 10:30am at Saint Bridget’s Catholic Church.
A devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather, John is survived by his wife of 56 years Margaret (Ball) Washington, his children: Michael (Dorey) Washington of Loves Park, IL, Michele Thomas of Vincennes, IN, Marc (Michelle) Washington of Loves Park, IL, Morey (Ann) Washington of Rockford, IL, and Mary Jo (Dawn) Hittington of Vincennes, IN. He is also survived by his sister Betty (David) Culver. John was preceded in death by his parents, his 3 brothers: Jim, Dale, and Tom, and his grandson, Christopher Thomas.
John spent his life in the service of others. He joined the Army Reserve out of high school, was an avid parishioner of Saint Bridget’s Catholic Church, and was a member of the Saint Bridget Council #4330 Knights of Columbus, as a 4th degree Knight under Bishop Muldoon, assembly 190. John knew no strangers. Those who knew him, knew him well; and upon meeting him, those who did not know him became his friend quickly because of his winning sense of humor and his welcoming and bright personality.
John worked at Chrysler for 34 years before his retirement. In his leisure time, he was an outdoorsman who enjoyed camping, boating, fishing, and hunting. But more than that, John lived for his wife, his 5 children, his 20 grandchildren, and his 13 great grandchildren. He truly loved watching them perform their favorite activities and participate in sports. He also enjoyed the time he and Margaret spent bowling and playing cards with their friends. If he wasn’t found at these places, he could be found in his chair with his cat Chloe watching a western movie. He will be missed always, and “If the good Lord’s willing,” we will be with him again someday.
