John Wittman

John Thomas Wittman, age 82, of Spokane, Washington, passed away on March 29, 2025.

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Ralph and Marcella Wittman, John was the eldest of five siblings. He graduated from DeLaSalle High School and earned his Bachelor's degree from St. Cloud State University, followed by an MS from the University of Southern California.

In June 1967, John answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. He was deployed to Okinawa, Japan, and served with distinction during the Vietnam War. After active duty, he began a new chapter with Northwest Airlines as a Scheduling Operations Manager. Later, he joined the Washington Air National Guard and was hired as a full time Air Technician Operations Director with the 105th Tactical Control Squadron, eventually rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel as Commander of the 256th Combat Communications Squadron. John retired with 27 years combined service active Air Guard. As a proud Master Weapons Controller and Commander, John played a vital role in multiple international operations during his military career, to include Desert Storm Battle Staff.

John lived his life as a true servant leader, dedicated to enriching his community. His love of the arts and service led him to roles as a board member for the Spokane Area Children's Choir-coordinating and chaperoning international trips for the traveling choir-as well as active involvement with the Spokane Civic Theatre, the Boy Scouts, the American Red Cross, Friends of the Davenport, and the grassroots effort to save Spokane's beloved Fox Theater.

A man of many talents, John also held a private pilot's license and enjoyed sailing on Lake Pend Oreille, scuba diving, hiking, camping, and serving on the National Ski Patrol. His career extended well beyond his military retirement, including work with Harborside Yacht Sales in Coeur d'Alene. After 9/11, John was personally called by the newly formed Department of Homeland Security to help shape the policies that became the framework of the Transportation Security Administration. John finally entered full retirement after at least a decade as the House Manager/Volunteer Coordinator for the Fox Theater. He was a fixture of the Davenport Christmas Tree Elegance for over 20 years.

The stage also called to John. Represented by Big Fish NW Talent, he appeared in regional theater productions such as Hello Dolly, My Fair Lady, A Christmas Carol, Singin' In the Rain, and Seussical (where he shone as the Grinch). He also appeared on screen in Benny and Joon and End Game, and in several commercials for Washington state public service campaigns.

Despite his many professional and artistic accomplishments, John's proudest role was that of husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and friend. He was deeply devoted to his wife Claire, his children Chris (Shannon), Tom (Brandi), and Romy Avalon, and his grandchildren Noah, Mia, Ella, and Flynn. Whether it was Saturday morning Teddy Bear pancakes with Mia, sharing special dinners with Noah, or encouraging a love of music in his grandchildren, John cherished every moment with his family.

John believed in leaving every place better than he found it-and he lived that philosophy every day. Known for his sharp intellect, boundless humility, and unwavering kindness, he built a wide circle of friendships that he treasured throughout his life.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Marcella, and his brothers Jim (Sue and niece Kai Li) and Pete. He is survived by his loving wife Claire, his sister Therese, his brother Mark (Patty), his children and their families, and multiple nieces, nephews and cousins, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of John's life will be held on Saturday, September 27th at 10:00am at St. Aloysius Gonzaga Church, with a reception immediately following. He will be interred with military honors at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery on Monday, September 29th.

If you're unable to attend, you can watch the live stream here: https://www.youtube.com/@stalsparish