John was born in Omaha, Nebraska. His family moved to Denver, Colorado.. then onto Seattle, Washington… moving into the “Lake House” in 1948. We still fondly refer to it as the “Lake House” even though it is no longer in its original state. Living on the water is where John grew into his love for anything boats winning the World 5 Mile Competition Record in JU Runabouts in 1956. John gradually moved into International 14’s then on to bigger boats. Sailing has been his passion since. John crewed for many a skipper in local Puget Sound racing circles. He was crew on 5 Transpacific races; 4 Trans Pac’s (Los Angeles to Honolulu) and one Victoria to Maui. Retirement brought about racing Mini 12’s and remote-controlled sailboats.
John was a Life Member of Seattle Yacht Club serving as Junior Advisor and on the Board of Trustees. John was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon at the University of Washington and Northwest Marine Trades. He also attended Central Washington University and Seattle University. In 1964 he was activated and joined the US Army… serving in the reserves for several years.
John and Kit met on a blind date in 1963. They were married in 1965 and moved to Southern California. From California they traveled 10 states setting up a new territory for Partex NW. Together they owned and built 2 businesses… Coastal Navigator and Barr Leonard Company. Their son, Joe, was born in 1970. John retired in 2005 – his time spent with constant tinkering, projects, helping friends, RC and Mini 12 racing, and bicycle rides including the annual Seattle to Portland Ride.
For the past 6 years John and Kit have enjoyed the sunshine in Surprise, Arizona. John is survived by his wife Kit, their son Joe, daughter-in-law Tiffani, grandchildren Addison and Craig, sister Jakelin Van Pool, her husband Ron and their two children Kari Vander Stoep (Brian) and Kendall Van Pool (Tanya) and their daughter, Anabelle.
In lieu of flowers please send any remembrances to either:
Behind the Badge Foundation 8309 – 165th Ave NE Unit 205 Redmond, WA 98052 - or your local chapter of the Salvation Army.
There are no immediate plans for a celebration of his life.
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