John Vernon Abbott
John Vernon Abbott, a native of Seattle, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2024 at age 78. His wife, Kelly Abbott, was by his side.
John was hardworking and successful throughout his life. After graduating from Ingraham High School in 1964, he served in the Army. Following his military service, he worked in several different industries. He particularly enjoyed selling golf equipment for many years.
John and Kelly were married in 1989. They traveled frequently to the Big Island, their golf clubs always in tow. They took many road trips together, most often to National Parks. John loved the outdoors. John also enjoyed music and going to concerts. Some of his favorites were the Grateful Dead, Jimmy Buffett, the Eagles, Elton John and Tom Petty. In fact, running into Kelly at a Grateful Dead concert in Eugene convinced him to ask her out on a first date.
John was a true sports fan and an athlete in his own right. He grew up playing football, baseball and basketball. UW Husky football was one of his favorites. He started going to games as a child, with his father JV and brother Jim. John also loved baseball and patiently taught Kelly all aspects of the game. They went to many Mariner’s games, Mariner’s Spring Training, and even Mariner’s Fantasy Camp.
John was an avid reader and did the daily and NY Times crossword puzzles in ink. You always wanted him on your Trivial Pursuit team.
Family was very important to John. He was the family memory holder and enjoyed family get-togethers whenever possible, particularly with his three siblings. He adored his nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. He loved to attend their sports events, play games, build toys and read to them.
John is survived by his wife, Kelly, sisters, Lynne Carlson and Katie (Larry) Richer, and sister-in-law Alice Abbott. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Tyra Abbott, and his brother, Jim Abbott.
A celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to a local charity in memory of John.
The post first appeared on Barton Family Funeral Service.