John W Spicka, age 88 of Astoria, passed away peacefully at his home on May 24, 2025.

John was born on July 6, 1936 in Cedar Rapids Iowa to John and Libbie Spicka.

John was a friend to all and he never met a stranger.  He shared stories of his early life helping in the community garden where his parents had a small plot of land that they used to grow their food.  This expanded to their ownership of a small farm outside of Blairstown Iowa.

John was drafted into the Army in 1959 and served 2 years in Hawaii, until he was called home to continue working on the farm when his father had an accident. Hobbies included the Saddle Club, bowling and woodworking.

He worked on his family's farm while also working evening at Wilson Foods, which was the fodder of many of his stories. After many years John became a carpenter and contractor.  Working several years at Great Plains building houses, taking many a young carpenter under his wings to teach them all he knew about woodworking.   He spent the rest of his life making many beautiful pieces to be enjoyed by all.

John was incredibly frugal and would recycle building materials, often finding bartering opportunities for supplies/services, while helping his neighbors.

John married the love of his life, Mary Ann, on December 22, 1974. They had a long and loving relationship until her passing in 2005. John was proceeded in death by his parents, John and Libbie Spicka, his sister Dorethy Marshall, his niece Carla Spicka, his son-in-law West Niver and his loving wife Mary Ann. He is survived by his brother, Charles Spicka, and was a loving step-father to Jeffrey (Susan) Lawrence and Cynthia (West) Niver.  He was always there to support his grandchildren: Zachary Lawrence, Sydney Lawrence; Benjamin Niver; Samuel Niver; Shanon Lawrence; Shawn Lawrence and several great-grandchildren.

After Mary Ann's retirement in 1992 the two of them relocated to Astoria Oregon to be closer to their grandchildren.  John continued to share his carpentry skills with the west coast for many years.  After his wife's death he traveled to many national parks. He absorbed everything he experienced and was an amazing tour guide to those who were fortunate enough to visit.

Planning is still in process for an upcoming Remembrance of Life celebration. Family and friends will be notified.