John Clement Linnan, 88, passed away unexpectedly March 18th. A native of Sioux City, IA, John earned a B.A. in Education and M.A. in Education Administration and Psychology at Colorado State College. John will best be remembered for his undying Irish humor and passion for self-improvement.
John served in the U.S. Army and Merchant Marines from 1945 - 1950 in both WWII and Korean conflict and received an honorable discharge as a sergeant. As a civilian, John continued to serve his country for the Air Force, Civil Defense, and FEMA.
The true story of John’s life centered around two things: 1) His devotion to his wife and, 2) His ongoing journey as a collector of all forms of art. John married Eleanor N. Henry on May 26, 1962 - a union that included her three young children: Jeffrey, Ann, and Peggy. He was preceded in death by Eleanor in July 2009. Despite his designation as “step-father”, John was the quintessential example of a true father - accepting the trials, tribulations, and life events that only growing children can present.
John’s passion was spent finding, researching, and dealing in art of many kinds including Native American Indian and Western artists. His day trips around the Midwest in search of items were his hallmark - many times returning with a piece that only he could see value in.
John is survived by his children: Jeff Linnan (Kristine), Plainfield, IN; Ann Boos and Peggy Linnan (Greg) - (both of Apache Junction, AZ); six grandchildren: Gianna Tumblin, Marisa Nadeau, Eric Paulson, Jeff Paulson, Joseph Teske, and Nora Teske; and seven great-grandchildren.