John Holton Foote

Wednesday at home, in the comfort of his recliner, remote control in hand and Kevlar at his side, John peacefully left us. Even though he had multiple health issues, he was stable, and it was quite unexpected.

Born in Columbus, Ohio, John moved to California at an early age. He lived in several California cities until finally settling in Dana Point, where he lived until graduating from Dana Point High School. While in high school he excelled in academics and athletics where he competed at the state level in wrestling and swimming. He was also a member of the football team, and JROTC. After graduating high school, John attended UCLA for a year, then decided to enlist in the U.S. Army before transferring to the Marine Corps in 1989. John was proud to serve his country and served in the Gulf War and was highly decorated. He was honorably discharged in 1994.

His love for machines and moving parts sent him into the field of hydraulics where John became a hydraulic engineer designing, building, and testing hydraulic motors. In 2001, John discovered his true calling and joined the Memphis Fire Department and never looked back. It was more than just a job; it was a passion unlike anything he could have ever imagined. Over the years, John earned a reputation for his strong will and drive. He would have sacrificed his life to save a brother; no man would ever be left behind on John Foote’s watch. A phrase heard countless times describing John “toughest SOB I have ever met.” A statement true to all aspects of Johns life.

John loved music, concerts, and always had music playing. An avid reader, John read hundreds of books, and often read 2-3 books at a time. Sports, cycling, running, camping, skiing, motorcycles, guns, car shows, and museums were just a few of his interests. John was also a huge military history buff. Above all, his number one passion was cars. He would watch countless hours of car shows, and his unmet dream was to restore a vintage car. John's dream car was a corvette.

His family was his world, there was no sacrifice too big. John was married to Karen for 24 years; she was the love of his life. His kids were his world, and he was so proud of who they have become. His service dog Kevlar was always by his side, “Kevy” misses his dad.

He was the kindest, most genuine man who would help anyone with anything. No matter how bad John felt, he always tried to smile, thank Karen, and tell Karen and the kids how much he loved them. Their lives will never be the same, but they are so grateful for the time they had and the great memories they made. He was a warrior and fighter to the end, still dreaming and planning for tomorrow, never giving up. Fly high and free of all the pain and worry.

John is predeceased by his mother, Carol Ann Maher; father, Robert James "Jim" Foote; and father-in-law, Marvin Namaka; and nephew, Reid Cottick. He is survived by his stepmother, Donna Bennett and mother-in-law, Joan Namaka. John is survived by his loving wife, Karen; children, Max, Erick (Marcela), Connar, Rilee and Holton; and grandchildren, Brandon and Liam. John is also survived by his siblings, Virginia Noland-Morton, Jonas Foote (LeAnn), and Rachel Price; in-laws, Ivy (Murray), Judy (Glen), Marvin (Michelle), Barry (Valdine); numerous nieces and nephews; service dog and loyal companion, Kevlar; and buddy, Cooper.

The family would like to thank those who reached out to John and kept in touch with him these last six difficult years. It meant the world to him. Thanks to the family and friends who were always there for us. To Dr. Dipersio and his team, Dr. Campbell, Michelle and Ms. Patsy, Dr Omer, and Dr. Klug, the last couple of years were complicated; you all took time with John, listened, and went out of your way to help. This gift of extra time allowed for many more precious memories.

All services will be held on Wednesday, January 20 at Memphis Funeral Home - Poplar Chapel. The family will receive friends from 4:00-6:00 PM with a celebration of John's life to be held beginning at 6:00 PM. In order to allow as many friends as possible to share in his life celebration, the 6:00 PM memorial service will be livestreamed via the link below.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to CARES Foundation, P.O. Box 314, 1233 North 90th Road,

Concordia, Kansas 66901. A GoFundMe account has also been established for the benefit of John's family: https://gofund.me/35858507.