John Edward Book

John Edward Book, age 84, passed away on June 6, 2025, after a long journey with Alzheimer’s disease. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by his family and all who were fortunate to know him.

John was born in Iowa in 1941 and grew up in Fresno, California.

John married Helen Johnson, with whom he had two children, Elizabeth and Charles. He later married Kay L. Wilshusen, and adopted her children, Kip and Krista, and had two children together, Carolyn and Samantha.

He was a proud grandfather to Caitlan, Christopher, Chloe, Colton, Caeden, and Logan, as well as to LeLan, Jacob and Amanda, whom he welcomed and loved as part of the extended family.

He proudly served in the United States military and was stationed in Paris, France. A time he remembered with warmth and pride throughout his life.

Though John wasn’t always strong in emotional expression, and he made his share of mistakes, he possessed something rare: a genuine willingness to learn, to grow, and to become a better version of himself. John had a lifelong passion for fixing things. Whether it was cars, a clock, toys, he approached each task with patience, focus, and a steady hand.

And for those who knew him well, John had a natural charisma and charm. It wasn’t loud or flashy, but it drew people in. He had an easy, often mischievous way about him, something smooth, something funny, something warm and it added light to every room he entered.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Kay and son Charles, and is survived by his children, grandchildren, and a legacy of resilience, humility, charm, and effort, an enduring reminder that it’s never too late to grow.

A private family memorial will be held in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor John’s memory by donating to the Alzheimer’s Association, fixing something in his name, or simply picking up the phone and calling someone you love.

Rest well, Dad. You will not be forgotten.