John Brandsma Obituary

JOHN A. BRANDSMA, JR
July 1, 1946 ~ February 22, 2016

John A. Brandsma Jr., 69, of Vancouver, Washington, surrounded by family and friend Tim Burr, left his earthly home, flew to the heavens, on Monday, February 22, 2016, and is now cancer free.
John was born July 1, 1946 in Sunnyside, Washington, where he lived there until 1966 when enlisted in the army and proudly served 3 years. After leaving the army, John joined the reserves and served another 25 years, retiring from the military in 1992.
John attended Perry Trade School and received his HVAC certification. He moved to Vancouver in 1976 and worked at Portland State University until he retired in 2002.
John was a loving father and husband. He married Sherry in 1977.
John enjoyed coaching YMCA basketball when his boys were younger, playing softball, bowling, going to the beach, traveling, spending time with family and John enjoyed his daily routine scratching those scratch tickets.
John is survived by the wife, Sherry; his sons, Jonas and Nicholas; his three grandchildren, Brady, Gavyn and Fallyn. Also surviving him are his brother, Don; sisters, Susie and Lyda; and his mother, Evelyn; nephew, Jeremy; nieces, Kristen, Tammy, Janee, Elaine, Yvette, Shelly, Wendy, Evie, and Melissa; and an aunt and many cousins. Special thanks to his cousin Neil Brandsma for his undying love and devotion. John had many long time friends who continued to support him through his illness. He was preceded in death by his father, John A. Brandsma Sr.
John loved and was loved by all who met him. He touched many and will be missed by all.
Memorial services will be held at New Heights Church Saturday, March 12, at 11:00 a.m., 7913 NE 58th Ave., Vancouver, Washington 98665. A reception following service will be held at Club Green Meadows, 7703 NE 72nd Ave., Vancouver, Washington 98661.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Share, 2306 NW Andresen Rd., Vancouver, Washington 98661.
Please sign his guest book at: www.columbian.com/obits.