John “Johnny” Taft Jr of Sedro Woolley WA at the age of 79 passed away on Tuesday July 25th, 2023 in his home.

Born on December 7 1943 in Mount Vernon WA to John Taft and Mildred (Barsness) Taft Lee. He was raised on the north end of Fir Island, with his grandparents and seven sisters.  He went to Conway Grade School and graduated class of 1962 from Mount Vernon High School. Following graduation he enlisted into the US Navy in December of 1962. He spent 4 years serving at US base Moffit Field.  After getting out of the service he lived in Northern California for another 6 years before moving back to Skagit County to be close to family.

In 1984 he met his wife Becky where they made their home in Sedro Woolley for nearly 40 years together. John and Becky welcomed home twins, Megan and Matt, on December 27 1984.  Being a good dad brought him so much joy and love.  He also welcomed his many dogs, Buster, Wally, Beauregard and Rocky into his home and his chair.

John began his career of 21 years at Skagit Farmers Supply, where he enjoyed the people he worked with and the customers he served.  John retired from the store in December of 2005 to enjoy his hobbies and spend time learning new things. John was never afraid to try something new, from MG’s, baking, gardening, to Bob Ross painting, and many other new adventures.

John was always up for an adventure.  When he could enjoy it with his family or friends, whatever the adventure was it often brought a smile to his face.  From camping trips with the kids, MG road trips and drives, trips to Alaska and his trip to Maui.

John is survived by his wife Becky (Hawkings), his daughter Megan (Steven) Ziegenhorn of Heber City UT, son Matt Taft of Bellingham.  Sisters Donna (Gerald), Mary, Nancy, Ellen, and Sylivia. Brothers-in-law Andy (Barb), Mike (Kathi) Jim, sister-in-law Jody (Mike). As well as many nieces and nephews. Also his best friend and coffee partner Harry Ellingsen.  He leaves behind his two pugs, Beauregard & Rocky, grand-pugs Zamboni & Gordie, and grand-cats Marcus & Sabrina.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Suzie and Sharon, stepfather Harold Lee, mother-in-law Artis Hawkings, father-in-law Edward Hawkings, brother-in-laws Mike Sloan and John Heerspink.

Celebration of Life to be held July 29 at 2:00 PM at Bethlehem Lutheran Church at 1006 Wicker Rd in Sedro Woolley. Coffee and Cookies to Follow.  MG’s Welcome.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Hospice of the Northwest, 227 Freeway Drive, Suite A, Mount Vernon, WA 98273.

Share your memories of John and sign the online guest register.