John’s Story

Site created on March 3, 2019

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Journal entry by David Haaland

We had a wonderful memorial service on Saturday afternoon to celebrate John's life. I want to thank all who were able to attend for making the memorial service and the reception such a moving success. John had planned his memorial service, and we followed his wishes for the scriptures, solos and the video of photos representing his life, family and friends. John had also specified that the service be on a Saturday so that people who worked during the week could be there. He also specified that it had to be more than two weeks after he died so that people could get cheaper tickets if they were flying into Albuquerque. The Church was nearly full, and it holds 400. John's daughter Jen gave a wonderful remembrance describing her moving and evolving relationship with John. His granddaughter Kaia wrote a poem and his grandson Eli wrote a letter to John that Jen read. His son-in-law Kiel and granddaughter Juliette were also at the alter adding their support. John's niece Terra read a beautiful poem that she wrote for John titled "Shining Season." I gave my sense of the person that I knew and what I had been told about John from those who knew him. Thank you also to Pastor Koppel for taking the time to listen to the family and for accurately representing John's life and character.

John had nearly 30 of his former Duke City Dasher track and field athletes there from all over the country. Coaches, students, athletes and their parents, teachers, employees, church members, high school and college friends, former neighbors, relatives and current friends were all there. More than 30 people traveled from out of state to attend. Emotional and humorous stories and remembrances were presented at the reception. Clearly, John impacted many lives in a very positive manner. I was so impressed by the love and respect that was shown for my brother. Thank you to all for your kind words to our family and to me. It meant a lot to me. Thanks to all who were not able to attend, but who sent their thoughts, condolences, and sympathies.

I only took one photo at the reception. It was of many of the Duke City Dashers when they came to the microphone and spoke and shouted out the Dasher fight song. If I hear in the comments that I am given permission to post the photo here, I will post it. Please, if you have photos that you want to share, please also post them here or on Facebook.
David
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