John H Carrigan 1926 - 2023

John H. Carrigan was born December 21, 1926 in Breckenridge, TX. He passed away on June 11, 2023 in Gig Harbor, WA at the age of 96 yrs with his daughter & son-in-law at his side. He enjoyed a life both well-lived & well-loved by his family.

 
John married our mother, Kathryn J. Byas, on June 2, 1949 in Fort Worth, TX. They enjoyed 56 years together, raising 4 children in West Texas. He was predeceased by our mother & his eldest son, John. And, is survived by his children: son Brian (wife Linda), daughters Colleen (husband Chris) & Kathleen (husband Phillip), as well as, 6 grandchildren & 10 great-grandchildren.

Our father possessed a very strong work ethic and instilled the same in each of his children. Dad retired from a 43-year career with what was then known as Texas Electric Service Company, working for many years in Midland, TX and eventually retiring in Arlington, TX.

As well, Dad was very proud of his service in the United States Navy. He served in the US Navy Amphibious Forces Pacific Theater as an LCVP engineer during WWII and as a boilerman on the USS De Haven DD-727 in the Korean War. In his later years, Dad visited both memorials honoring all who served in those wars in Washington, DC. 

John's final 8 years were spent in Gig Harbor, WA with his eldest daughter, Colleen, and her family. He loved living in their Pacific Northwest forest home and surroundings. And, being an active part of Colleen's family, including his granddaughter's & her husband's three young children, until his final days. 
Our father was a man of deep faith and a dedicated & loving family man. We were all blessed that his mind remained sharp, & wit intact, right up to the end. Fair winds & following seas, Sir. You taught us well, Dad. We have the watch.