James Tipton

Vessey Funeral Service - Fort Collins

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John Szambelan passed away July 12, 2017 in Rochester, Washington. He was born July 29, 1928 in Chehalis, Washington. He was the youngest of five children born to Peter and Zofia Szambelan, who had earlier immigrated to the United States from Eastern Europe. 

John was the last surviving member of his generation, as his two brothers, Pete and Ed, along with his two sisters, Flex and Helen, had passed before him. John’s wife, Kathryn, or Candy as she was known, also preceded him in death some 10 years ago. He is survived by his son, David (wife, Sandra) of Spokane, Washington; and his daughter, Lisa (husband, Tony) of Rochester, Washington. John was also a grandfather to David’s children, Alex and Sara, as well as Lisa’s boys, Zachary and Anthony. 

John lived his early years on the family farm just outside of Chehalis in the area called Onalaska. Everyone living on the farm during those early Depression years were expected to work to keep it going. John was no exception. He often told the story where he would be the one driving the horse-drawn hay wagon while his older brothers and their dad would load the hay. What made this remarkable was the fact that John was only 10 years old at the time. 

After graduating from W.F. West High School in Chehalis, John went on to Centralia College and then to the University of Washington, where he graduated with a degree in business. During the time he spent at the university in Seattle, he was able to live with his sister, Helen, and her husband, Dan. John would often speak of their generosity in giving him a place to stay while he finished college. 

In 1960, John married the love of his life, Kathryn Finch. Together they made their home on the family farm. John split his time on the farm with that of his other passion, business. He was employed at the Daily Olympian as their business manager. Eventually, the family moved from the farm to a home in Olympia, where he has lived for the last 50 years. 

After leaving the newspaper, John went on to successfully operate his own real estate company, while also pursuing his passion for investing. John’s frugalness and fierce negotiating skills served him and his family well over the years. 

John was a very quiet man, but felt things very deeply. His family meant everything to him. He led by example rather than words. Whenever someone was in need, he was there to lend a helping hand. His contribution to this world was shown in the love he had for his family, his incredible intelligence, and moral convictions he showed as he navigated through his life. Still waters run deep. 

Please leave memories of John or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.

When words can't fully express what we want to say, sometimes a small gift can. Visit our Memorial Store for personalized gifts, keepsake jewelry and to plant a memorial tree.

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John Szambelan Obituary | Altogether