Obituary: Thayer, John H. “Jack”
He was born 94 years ago in Spokane on October 2, 1919, to Eugene and Mary (Kelly) Thayer.
He spent his youth in Chewelah, where he graduated from high school in 1937.
He liked sports, and played baseball with a Knights of Columbus champion team.
He also played football at Gonzaga University.
He was a fan of the Seattle Seahawks, and the UW Huskies and Gonzaga Bulldogs teams.
Jack served in the United States Coast Guard during WWII.
He and his bride, Elizabeth Koziuk, recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary with a family-hosted party and marriage blessing at St. Mary Presentation Parish in Deer Park, WA.
They were married in Chewelah on October 4, 1943.
Jack and Elizabeth had 8 children and lived in Chewelah, Spokane, Seattle, Deer Park, Colville, and finally, Clayton.
Jack was a skilled carpenter and built or remodeled several houses for his family.
He worked most of his life in the residential construction trade, a skill he learned from his father and uncles.
He had his own contractor’s license, and taught his sons the trade.
Because of his problem solving skills and expertise, he was often consulted by others in his profession.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Vaunette Owens, sons, George and John, grandson, Jeremy Owens, and brothers Chet and Bob.
He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; daughters Fernonda (Sonny) Knudsen, Jacqueline (Jeff) Hebebrand, and Elisia (Scott) Dekay; sons Rod (Patricia), and Ted; and his sister, Theresa Ganoung.
He had 24 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, two great-great-grandsons and numerous other family, nieces, and nephews.
Jack loved his family and traveled great distances to visit them over the years.
He cherished time spent together, and was loved by all.
He had a gentle but stern demeanor.
We will miss him dearly, but are comforted to know that our heavenly family is growing and watching over us.
A memorial service will be held in the spring.
Please visit Jack’s on-line memorial at www.hennesseyfuneralhomes.com to leave a message of condolence.
Arrangements have been entrusted to