Obituary of John Allen Forespring Jr.

John Allen Forespring Jr. passed away on Friday, October 15, 2021, at the VA Hospital in Seattle at the age of 57. John is survived by his three children, Sahra Forespring, Patrick Forespring, Brittany Dalenko, and bonus daughter, Kasondra Eldred; seven grandchildren; and four bonus grandchildren. He was also survived by his mother Patsy Heffernan; and his seven siblings, Tracee, Raymond, Christopher, Angela, Stephen, Sara, and Brian.  He was preceded in death by his father, John Allen Forespring Sr.

 

John was born in Olympia, Washington, on August 10, 1964, to parents John Allen Forespring Sr. and Patsy Elmora Heffernan. John was affectionately known as John John to his family, JJ to his friends, and Pops to many more who entered his life.

 

John graduated from Kent Meridian High School in 1983. He obtained several associates degrees in Science and Engineering from Pierce College and Bates Technical College. He joined the military in 1983 and was stationed at Fort Sill, Germany, and Ft. Lewis, Washington from 1983 to 1987; and was in the reserves until 1989. He received the Army Lapel Button, Army Good Conduct Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, and Marksman Qualification Badge upon separation from the service.

 

John had many jobs throughout the years, including customer service, mechanic, military, engineering, State Farm, Dept. Natural Resources, manager of the FourSpring Land Trust on the behalf of his Aunt Cathy and Uncle Charlie, but he really enjoyed the job title “Papa” to his grandchildren.

 

Being recognized as a Native American (a member of the Cowlitz Tribe) was very important to him. He was an active member in his tribe and served the Health Board and various groups to be the voice for his next seven generations, his people, and was involved in the Allottees Association for tribal allotments. John was proud of his Native Heritage and taught all those around him to be proud of those who came before us and continue to speak up for the injustice that has happened in the past and continues today.

 

Growing up, John loved playing cowboy and Indians, his favorite toy was GI Joe, and he enjoyed showing sheep at the local fairs through the 4H club headed by his Grandmother Forespring. He enjoyed riding dirt bikes and quads, skiing, outdoor activities, and anything that involved the tribe. His favorite activity was spending time with his grandsons, Nikoly and Dietrek, and teaching them about life, their Ancestors and what it meant to be Native.  His favorite dog was Fritz, affectionately known as Fritzy. John had a dry and at times a wicked sense of humor, and enjoyed picking on his family members. His belief was “Don’t talk about it, just do it” and “You should have listened to me, because I’m always right.” He tried to be tough on the outside, but was really a big softy and loved everyone.

 

Native American Services will be held on Sunday, November 7, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at the Cowlitz Indian Tribal Health and Human Services building, 1000 Davis Place, Dupont, WA 98327.

 

Another Service will occur later.  The date/time/place will be announced by his daughter, Sahra, when arrangements have been finalized.

 

Celebration:  John’s wish was for his family and friends to gather at the China Clipper in Olympia in his honor. This gathering will occur on Friday, November 5, 2021, at 7 p.m.

 

You are welcome and encouraged to leave memories on the Tribute Wall to the left.

 

 

 

 

 

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