In memory of

John Anthony Maddocks

Jul 21, 1937
May 3, 2020

Obituary

John Maddocks’s kind and generous heart stopped beating May 3, 2020. His passing leaves a tremendous hole in the fabric of our family.

John was born on July 21, 1937 in Portland, Oregon to Everett and Reta Maddocks. He attended Central Catholic High School and the University of Portland where he was student body president and captain of the Air Force ROTC Mitchell’s Rifle Squadron. Upon graduation he entered the United States Air Force. It was during his stint in the Air Force that he was introduced to the fledging world of computers. This introduction would serve him well during his career as a computer craftsman for IBM, Capp Homes, and the Portland Police Bureau, where—as head of information systems—he was given the rank of Assistant Chief. He established the mainframe computer system for the bureau. He ended his career at Floating Point Systems, retiring in his early 50s.

John kept busy with many hobbies and a love of researching and learning new things. At the age of 80, he started a vineyard, planting and tending to 72 grape vines. He had hoped to live long enough to bottle his own wine. Unfortunately, this was not to be.

John is survived by Christie, his wife of 60 years; his children Katherine (Brant), Betsy, Mary (Dean), Joe, and David (Suzi); 14 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and his older brother, Tom. Throughout the years John and Christie also had a myriad of rescue dogs, three of which survived him.

Everyone who met John respected him and grew to love him. He had quick, dry wit and was extremely generous with his time and treasure. He will be missed immensely.

Remembrances can be made in his name to Lighthouse Farm Sanctuary in Scio, Oregon.

Messages of Sympathy

  1. Anonymous says:

    We did not know John well, however, his subtle smile, keen eye contact and devotion to family are the values and traits we try to instill in our children/grandchdren. Certain people come forward in your life journey, and if you're astute to catch their drift, you become a better, caring, soulful person... y'all did with John!
    Our sympathies to all the Maddocks, and all who were fortunate to be in his kindness.
    Harry & Kim Aldrich
    PS Some children, and grandchildren, in life do not get the years that the Maddocks had with their grandparent; what a blessing, and cheers to your good fortune!

  2. Megan Moles says:

    I'm so glad to have met John Maddocks , he was such a genuine & compassionate human being .He will be dearly miissed. My love to your family, I'm sure you are truly hurting

  3. Mark Belgrave says:

    John and I met just over a decade ago but in conversations we found that our lives have crossed paths we may have sat next to each other at Madeline church at sometime when we were both younger. He was a very dear friend and will be greatly missed.

  4. Carrier Laplaca says:

    I met your father when I was 3 years old in mom's bedroom. I remember peeking at him under my covers and he made Patty and I laugh. Fond memories of John, especially when he called me super Cares. Love you, Mary so sorry!

  5. Michelle Bressler says:

    Mr. Maddocks (as I would probably still call him even though i am now a grown up too) was a rock of NE 20th street. He cared about us neighborhood kids, teased us and helped us get where we needed to go. growing up on that street was so special and he made it so. My deepest condolences.

  6. Bob Newton says:

    My sincerest condolences to Christie and the rest of the Maddocks family. Jim Richardson and I were planning a reunion with John. I am greatly saddened that we are unable to complete it. He will be missed by many.

  7. Milt Smith says:

    John was one of the good ones and truly one of a kind! He will be missed! He was really looking forward to wine from his little vineyard which he planted with help from another friend, Dick Erath. I will miss our occasional get togethers.

  8. Barbara Miller says:

    I am so saddened to hear of John's passing. He was one of the very nicest people, always keeping is faith, family and friends close to his heart. John was a part of a very special group of friends who meet on a regular basis. Our group will never be the same.

  9. Michael O’Connor says:

    Although I never met John Maddocks, I’ve known James Richardson since childhood. Jim’s admiration of Mr Maddocks is boundless and his loss affects us all. My most Sincere Condolences to the Maddocks family, and all mourning his passing.

  10. Staff of Johnson Funeral Home says:

    John has an amazing posterity and we are very grateful now to be associated with them. We hope for comfort and peace to all suffering this great loss. Thank you for your trust.

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