John Allen Comoza's Obituary
John Allen Comoza was born on June 15, 1957 in Tacoma, Washington to Don and Marlene Purvis. Later, John was adopted by Marlene’s second husband, James Comoza. He grew up in Tacoma and attended Foss High School, where he was known to be in shop class a lot changing the color of his Mustang!
John was a Scoutmaster in the late 1970s, early 80s. He encouraged and helped many scouts to go for and achieve their Eagle Scout rank. John began as a tow truck driver, which eventually led him into a career in driving semi trucks. He took pride in his trucks, always making sure that they were clean and lookin’ good! I’m sure a few of his grandsons could attest to this!! John loved to travel, camp, and be out on the water. He was an awesome water skier! In his youth, John was even a competitive dance skater! He was a creative artist. He sent many drawn pictures and cards to family and friends. He also loved a big get together! Many potlucks and game nights were definitely a great time with John!
The best way to describe John’s life is in seasons…
He married his High School sweetheart, Patti. They had many fun adventures together and with friends. Together, they share three children and thirteen grandchildren. Even after their divorce, and Patti’s marriage to Greg, they remained friends. They continued to share in adventures with their family through the end and have shown an example of forgiveness and friendship as a legacy.
John did have some troubled times. He was always willing to talk about those times because it meant helping someone not going down his path. Even during this season in his life, he continued to help others. He encouraged people to continue their education, to stay positive, and use your first, second, third, or even fourth chances if necessary, to make amends. We know that many people consider him as a brother or a father figure because of how he was.
John’s relationship with Steven was a good time in his life. He was also involved with his kids and his grandkids during that time. John missed his mom after her death and was blessed with Steven’s mom, Sharon, in his life. He spent a lot of time with all of his native family. Even after he and Steven had not been together for some years, Sharon, Erica, and Joel were still there for John.
Finally, this last season of John’s life has brought him back to Faith and Family. He mended broken relationships and reconnected with extended family. He spent time making lasting memories with his kids and grandkids. They had adventures at Ft. Warden, work trips in the truck, many sports activities, birthdays, and holidays. John was honored to be asked and played a part in “The Last Supper” reenactment at Grace Place. He loved his fur babies! Crash and Ivan were his kids..period. He made sure that Cheryl, Kristy, and Nick knew this by telling the dogs “Look! It’s your sister/brother” and signed his cards from he and the dog.
John took his last breath on April 8, 2016 at home in Lakewood, Washington. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Toni. He is survived by his children: Cheryl, Kristy (Lance), and Nick (Latrice); 13 Grandchildren; His brother, Don; Steven and his family; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews; and cherished extended family Greg, Patti, Steven, and Brittany.
John left this earth knowing he was right with his family and right with God!
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