John Johanson Service Details - Oak Harbor, Washington | Wallin-Stucky Funeral Home

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John H
Johanson

September 3, 1938 – October 6, 2018

John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson John Johanson
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"We are honored to provide this Book of Memories to the family."
— Wallin-Stucky Funeral Home
"Elisabeth, Stina and family, I am so sorry for your loss. I loved hearing all the funny stories the two of you would tell about your Dad,..."
— Alan and Marilyn Anderson
"Dad you will always be a part of me. You have carried me many times throughout my life. Now I will carry you in my heart wherever I go...."
— Elisabeth Engstrom
"In loving memory of my husband. I love you forever, Betty"
— Elizabeth Johanson

Obituary for John H Johanson

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September 03, 1938 to October 06, 2018

John H. Johanson, an accomplished pilot; devoted father and grandfather; a dedicated, loving husband; friend of many; and beloved son of an Illinois farmer; passed away peacefully on October 6, 2018 with family at his side.

“Big Bad John,” as he has been affectionately called since his Navy days, will be deeply missed by everyone who was blessed to spend time engaging in discussion with this incredibly memorable man! John loved rooting for the underdog, fighting for rights of others with his South Whidbey protest group, boating, engaging in vigorous debates, the Seattle Mariners, making Swedish Sausages, and enjoying coffee (followed by a pinch of Copenhagen) with fellow retirees.

Born September 3, 1938 to Helen and Hack Johanson, John was raised on a farm in St. Charles, Illinois, where he learned the value of hard work and a strong work ethic that was later instilled in his two daughters and many grandchildren.

Upon graduating from Utah State University with a Forestry degree, John moved to Canada and discovered his love of flying while training with a local bush pilot. He then joined the military where he proudly flew for the US Navy. John’s experience opened the door to a long and successful career with Western and Delta Airlines before retiring as Captain in the late 1990’s.

After retirement John and his wife Betty relocated to Whidbey Island, where they enjoyed island life, wonderful neighbors and magnificent sunsets for the next 14 years.

John leaves behind his wife Betty née Archer (Kennedy), daughter Elisabeth (Chris) Engstrom of Bainbridge Island, Washington; daughter Stina (Debbie) Johanson of Oakley, California; mother-in-law Elnora Archer of Whidbey Island; Deb (Jeff) Kennelly of Jacksons Gap, Alabama; Dirk (Kim) Kennedy of Olympia, WA; Dina (Lee) Yarbrough of Kirkland, WA; grandchildren Cory, Cameron, Vincent (Savanna), Samantha (Richard), Cooper, Conner, Delaney, Jake, Payten, Brighten, and friends. Plus John’s extended family in Sweden.

John is preceded in death by his parents Helen and Hack Johanson; first wife, Ina R Johanson née Sundstrom; and grandson Nelson Yarbrough.

The Johanson family suggests memorials may be made out to both the Coupeville Fire Department and Whidbey Health Emergency Medical Services for their attentiveness and compassionate care.

To send flowers to the family of John H Johanson, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

Service Information

Location
Services to be held at a later date.
Address
WA
Service Extra Info
The Johanson family suggests memorials in John's name be made out to:Coupeville Fire Department, 1164 Race Road, Coupeville, WA 98239

Affiliations


  • National Defense Service Medal

  • US Navy
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