John was born Dec. 4, 1948, to Fred Van Epps and Claudia DeBord in the Yakima area. John grew up in Tieton, Washington. He loved cars and enjoyed working on them. John did his best to avoid getting into trouble – and school – with his numerous cousins and good friends in tow. After graduating from Highland High School in 1967, he met and later married Clarvine Manuel on May 8, 1971, in Naches, Washington. John served a short stint in the U.S. Army from 1970-71.
John was part of the Local 302 Union for Heavy Equipment Mechanics. He spent 25-plus years at NC Machinery and 10 years with the Fort Simcoe Job Corps as an instructor. After retiring, John enjoyed being outdoors and playing golf. He carded his first hole-in-one at Fisher Golf Course last summer. He also enjoyed fishing, camping, Jeeping, RVing and watching sports, especially the Seattle Seahawks and Seattle Mariners.
John was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Claudia Van Epps; wife Clarvine Manuel-Van Epps; and son Eric Van Epps.
John is survived by brother Dean Van Epps; companion Shirley Robert; son Kevin Van Epps; daughter Shannon Van Epps; daughter Vanessa Syfert; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
A viewing will be held at Keith & Keith Funeral Home in Yakima on Wednesday, April 2, from 3-7 p.m. Graveside service will be held at Terrace Heights Memorial Park in Terrace Heights on Thursday, April 3, at 1 p.m. A potluck/celebration of life will follow at Fontaine Estates off of the Old Naches Highway at 151 Rowe Hill Dr. in Naches. Please wear Seahawks/Mariners attire to honor John.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a charity of your choice.
