Obituary of John Russell Bresko

The world lost an incredibly curious, kind, and generous man when John Russell Bresko passed away of cancer on January 27, 2019 at age 67. Born April 18, 1951 in Pasco, Washington, John was the only child of Frank and Katherine (Godfrey) Bresko.  He grew up in Pasco with family and friends who remained connected for life. Earning a BS and MS in Psychology, as well as a Program Administrator Certificate in Special Education, John worked tirelessly his entire career for Special Education programming and services in Washington State. He served with compassion in school districts, as well as at the regional level ESD 189 for many years before he “retired.” Then John moved from Mount Vernon to Olympia, Washington, to work at the state level on Special Education, at the Office of Superintendent for Public Instruction from 2005 until his death. John was a well-respected mentor to many and a beloved colleague.

John was equally giving in his personal life as he was in his professional life. He was known for being deeply generous and kind, was quick to smile and laugh, and constantly impressed his friends and family with his vast knowledge of any subject. Truly, it seemed he was a man who knew everything! John was a voracious reader and learner, he enjoyed traveling, cooking, music, movies, and visiting and talking on the phone with his sons. John took great pride in being a grandfather, and cherished spending time with the love of his life, Kristin Hennessey. We will profoundly miss John’s curiosity and passion for life, his twinkling blue eyes, and his unbelievably generous spirit.

John is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his life partner, Kristin Hennessey; stepson, Ben Stern; sons, Andy Bresko and Peter Bresko (Chelsea); granddaughters, Braelyn and Blair Bresko; and stepdaughters, Mae, Anya, and Isabel Boettcher.

Please join us for a Memorial Service in honor of John at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2019, at South Sound Manor, 455 North Street SE, Tumwater, WA 98501. Reception immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in John’s memory be given to Special Olympics of Thurston County – something he would have loved. Make checks payable to SOWA, c/o Mark Barker, 2409 44^th Ave. NW, Olympia, WA 98502.