John Foshee

John Elijah Foshee, 94 of Springfield, died Saturday, October 28, 2023 at his residence.

He was born September 27, 1929, in Kirby, AR the son of John W. and Dora L. Gay Foshee. He married Aiko Azuma on May 19, 1955 in Yokohama, Japan, and she preceded him in death on December 31, 2013.

He is survived by his daughter Ruriko Murray of Springfield; two grandchildren Christine (husband Joe) Lee of Springfield and John (wife Robin) Murray of Pleasant Plains ; three great-grandchildren Joe Lee, Elizabeth Lee, and Samantha Murray; four great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a son-in-law David Murray, and four sisters Magaline Young, Mentoria Logan, Rosa Albin, and Ivy Change.

John's hard work ethic began at a young age. He left school at fifteen to help his father on the family farm. He was a chauffeur, drove a semi-truck hauling logs, and on his trip back home, he would load up with watermelons to sell. He later honorably served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. While stationed in Japan he met and wed his wife. Upon his return home, he began a career with the Roza Irrigation District in Sunnyside, WA. He helped supply water to the local farmers. John tended to a large vegetable garden and sold his produce to grocery stores, and even made fishing lures and sold them as well. John was an avid elk hunter and trout and salmon fisherman, participated in many bowling leagues, and was a member of VFW Post #3482 in Sunnyside, WA.

John's family was a big part of his life. He helped care for his wife, who became legally blind at the age of 40, and after her passing, he moved to Springfield so he could be closer to his daughter and grandchildren. He also enjoyed taking off with his daughter and finding a local casino to press their luck. He lived an entire life and had the pleasure of living independently until his death.

Graveside military honors will be conducted by Guthrie-Pierce VFW Post #1239 at 11 AM Saturday, November 4, 2023 at Beardstown City Cemetery . Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been suggested to VFW Post #3482 in SunnySide,WA. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.