Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
John Garvin Obituary
John was a big man with a big intellect and a big heart. After college, John graduated from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and completed Master's degrees in Public Health and Social Work. After finishing his Ph.D. in Social Work, he accepted the position of Executive Director for Alaska Children's Services and moved to Anchorage in 1975 with his family. In the years that followed, he continued his mission work serving churches throughout Alaska and Pennsylvania. After retirement, John and Audrey enjoyed RV-ing around the country before settling once again in Anchorage to be near the majority of their children.
A husband, and father of 8, he married most of his children (and grandchildren), and buried two of them. He supported and encouraged, without judgment, the dreams of every member of his large family. Throughout his life, he was a consummate practical joker who slit drinking straws, started diaper fights, offered to buy cherished security blankets, ate anything set before him without regard to health or safety, and convinced his grandchildren that his dog could do basic arithmetic. He was Santa Claus at Christmas, and an equally joyous presence every other day of the year.
John is preceded in death by his parents; son, David Garvin; daughter, Julianne Garvin-Thompson, and son-in-law, Jerry Fries.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 62 years, Audrey; children, Barbara Kenyon (Douglas), Sally Fries (Robert Wilson), Janice Nightingale (Joseph), Clark Garvin (Jennifer), Kenneth Garvin (Noriko), and Lynette Garvin; 20 grandchildren, and 27 great grandchildren.
In memory of John as a food lover and tireless advocate for social justice, in lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to one of his favorite organizations: Bean's Cafe, P.O. Box 100940, Anchorage, AK, 99510 or www.beanscafe.org.
A family gathering will be held April 5, 2014 in Anchorage, local arrangements provided by Janssen Evergreen Memorial Chapel.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Garvin
Karl Pulliam
October 28, 2021
I am sorry to have waited until now to look up a most influential man in my life and find my time to visit and thank him have passed. Just know, to anyone who may read this, John helped me immensely nearly 30 years ago and his help will never be forgotten by me and certainly by the Lord he served so well.
Diane Pearson
August 18, 2019
I was thinking back over my life & raising the 5 kids, and Dr. Garvin came to mind. We were, as a family; clients for his home based Good News Counseling in Anchorage in the early 90s. I remember him as an incredibly insightful and forthright and caring minister. Even if the good news (little g!) Just wasnt so good, he was right on target with a reality check, and practical advice to cope. During a painful time for our family, he actually drove over to our house, waited outside for my then 6 yr. old to take him go-carting, my sons choice for an outing.
When they got back, we laughed because Dr. G had slightly disappointed him by not actually riding! a go- cart himself! I still remember his big smile, twinkling eyes, and comforting voice. And some of the things he said to help us; some of it quite unexpected,
and also his timely humor.
I am thankful for his being there, in Anchorage & leaving a legacy...and whoever reads this very late memory; know I moved out of state years ago and was just reflecting back, so I looked him up. Prayers for the family of this wonderful man, imperfect but so influential to many!! (He seemed to me like a Biblical David; a man after Gods own heart.)
God bless you,
Diane P
Marley Schneeman
May 12, 2018
John married my husband & I almost 50 years ago in Northview Heights in Pittsburgh, PA. I will be forever grateful to him for setting me on the path in my walk with Christ.
April 11, 2014
Not only did John perform our wedding service, but he and Audrey made a house call as Mr. and Mrs. Claus one year. Treasured memories of an outstanding man. Much love to all the family. John and Stuart Beard
Your Friends at Hospice of Anchorage
March 31, 2014
Sharing your family's sadness in this time of loss and sending wishes of peace and comfort to you all...
mindy hardy/beeson
March 31, 2014
clark I just want to say how sorry I am for your loss. God Bless you and your family. take care.
Douglas Tryck
March 31, 2014
My sincerest condolences to the Garvin family. I worked for Alaska Childrens Services when he was the director. What a wonderful, fair, caring and sincere leader. He will be missed by many.
Doug Tryck
March 31, 2014
Dear Family,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. May you find comfort during this difficult time. Luke 1:78
Julie Whitlock
March 31, 2014
This wonderful man changed my life by helping me understand I was just as important as everyone else in my family.
Mary Mullen
March 31, 2014
What a good and lovely man! He did so much for Alaska's children. He was a trend-setter for loving care. Love to his family, and all of us, at this great loss.
Sophie Gutierrez
March 30, 2014
A very fair and just man. RIP John
Kristi Stringer
March 30, 2014
In the early 80's, Dr. Garvin gave me the opportunity to advance in my career path by providing me "space" to write articles about Alaska Children's Services -- sending them to denominations in the Lower 48. It was a kind of beginning I will always remember and be grateful for. He was an excellent administrator who allowed his people to excel. Plus he made a great Santa. He's with the angels now and my prayers are with his family for peace as they all get through the "firsts" w/o this great man.
Jason Lytle
March 29, 2014
To the greatest man I've ever known, my Uncle John. Your never ending love and compassion for those in need will surely be missed. I'm sure you were smiling down from heaven today as so many wonderful things were said about you.
I love you and miss you.
Judy Bartus
March 29, 2014
Dr. John was such a loving person. My thoughts and prayers are with Audrey and family. May you find comfort in your loving memories.
Joseph Passino
March 28, 2014
The greatest great pap. He will be greatly missed by all..
March 27, 2014
For all those candles you lit for everyone else, here's one for you.
robert sterbacky
March 27, 2014
Look forward to seeing you when I come home, Praise the Lord!
March 27, 2014
Love you and miss you. Janice
Showing 1 - 19 of 19 results
Make a Donation
in John Garvin's name
Memorial Events
for John Garvin
Funeral services provided by:
Janssen's Evergreen Memorial Chapel - Anchorage737 E Street, Anchorage, AK 99501
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor John Garvin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
