Obituary of John Michael Griffiths

John M. Griffiths, age 62 passed away surrounded by his wife and daughters at home on July 27, 2020. He was born on March 26, 1958 in Massillon, Ohio to the late Gerald and Antoinette Griffiths. He grew up as a proud Massillon Tiger graduating from Massillon Washington High School in 1976. Upon graduation John enlisted in the Army as a Transportation Operator. His first duty station was at Fort Lewis, WA where he remained building a life and family in the Pacific Northwest (Tacoma) for his remaining days. Upon leaving the Army John worked as a Truck Driver before transitioning to work for the United States Postal Service where he worked and eventually retired with 28 years of service. Upon retirement he went on to dedicate even more time to his family, friends and many hobbies.

John most enjoyed riding his Harley, sharing a shot of tequila, renovating homes and house boats, road trips with friends and family, diving off the top of his houseboat, skipping rocks, playing with his grandchildren, nieces and nephews, cards and games, a hike in the mountains, golfing, skiing, fishing, swimming in the rain, lake baths, swimming in Lake Shasta, treasure hunts, anything to love on his country (he always had his flags flying proudly), cheering on the Seahawks, a good cup of black coffee, late night runs to the casino, singing karaoke, lending a helping hand, and spreading laughter everywhere he went.

John had an uncanny ability to reach people. He saw the humanity in everyone. There was no one that he would not help, care for, laugh with or share a conversation with. People were drawn to his easy-going candor, openness, his endearing spirit, humor, charisma and ability to live in the moment.

John is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 28 years; Karen Griffiths. His daughters; Wendy (Carey) Way, Joleen (Michael) Ardale, and Jessica (Aaron) Ohnstad. His grandchildren; Gabrielle, Danica, Griffin, August, Maya, Aubrey, Lincoln, and Emma. His brothers and sisters; Dave (Claudia) Schlemmer, Mary Jane (Steven) Malich, Ruth (John) France, Jerry (Jill) Griffiths, Debbie (Michael) Scarberry, Jeff (Patty) Griffiths, Bill (Sherri) Mitzel, and Jim (Linda) Scarberry. His mother-in-law; Teruko Shadlow. His brothers-in-laws (brothers); Robert (Junee) Shadlow, Roger (Helene) Shadlow, Norman (Ty) Shadlow, Daniel (Debbie) Shadlow, and Ronald Shadlow. In addition, his much loved and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

John is preceded in life by his parents; Gerald and Antoinette Griffiths and father-in-law, Joseph Shadlow.

He will be laid to rest at the Tahoma National Cemetery on Thursday; August 6, 2020. Due to COVID-19 restrictions this memorial is limited to invitation only.

A celebration of life will follow on Thursday; August 6, 2020 from 12 pm – 4 pm. We would like to extend an invitation to family, friends and any life that has been touched by John to celebrate with us at Lake Wilderness Park; [23801 - 23899] SE 248th Pl, Maple Valley, WA 98038; Shelter #3.

We would advise to take proper precautions in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic to protect yourselves and others in alignment with CDC recommendations.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in the fight to cure cancer: 

https://www.gofundme.com/f/john-griffiths-memorial-donations-for-cancer?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1

 

 

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