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BORN
1939
DIED
2024
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John Messina Obituary
December 11, 1939 - January 2, 2024
Tacoma, Washington - Lifelong Tacoma resident John Louis Messina left us on January 2nd at the age of 84.
John grew up in the Hilltop neighborhood surrounded by the Italian immigrant community. His childhood consisted of hanging out with his extended family and his many friends, attending St. Rita of Cascia Church, and Bryant Elementary. He thought he would devote his life to the priesthood, so from ages 13 to 18 he was educated at St. Edward Seminary in Kenmore.
Deciding the priesthood was not for him, he attended UPS and became a teacher. He met the love of his life, Guelda Lewis, and they were married in 1964.
John decided to go to law school, so he, Guelda, and his bonus daughter Dana Sue Galagan moved to Spokane so he could attend night school at Gonzaga Law. Somehow, he and Guelda managed to raise Dana and have three more kids during law school: Maribeth Lynn Messina in 1966, John Louis Messina Jr. in 1967, and Megan Ann Bostic in 1969.
John returned to Tacoma to practice and using his brilliant legal mind, he set several legal precedents and won top verdicts in the state. He won many awards and the respect of his colleagues.
John had many interests and he always brought the fun. He played and coached softball teams well into his 50s. He traveled to all 50 states and many countries. He loved playing games and trivia, took up golf later in life, and was an active Democrat and member of the Sons of Italy.
John is survived by his wife Guelda, his four children, son-in-law Dan Galagan, many friends and relatives, and his five grandchildren who gave him so much joy: Lily Beth Galagan, Giovanna Rose Peitz, Mary Johanna Bostic, Rey Ann Bostic, and Vincent Jerome Peitz.
Please help us celebrate the life and legacy of John Messina. Recitation of the Rosary is at 6pm Thursday, January 18th at St Rita of Cascia, 1403 S. Ainsworth.
Funeral Mass will be held at 11 am Friday, January 19th at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 5510 N. 44th followed by a lunch reception.
The Family welcomes you to read more about John and leave comments at
https://www.gaffneyfuneralhome.com/obituary/John-MessinaSr
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Messina
Sponsored by Gaffney Funeral Home.
3 Entries
Alyce Brame-Galyean
January 25, 2024
John was my attorney for approximately 30 years and a true friend. I've been out of touch so this was quite a shock. Can't even begin to know how you feel Gwelda. Know that he will be sorely missed my dear. The world is a better place for having him here. Peace. Alyce Brame-Galyean
Alex and Susan Apostle
January 15, 2024
God bless you. The Apostle Brothers
Debbie Fisher
January 11, 2024
John was my attorney many years ago when he practiced in Tacoma. He was such a nice man and so friendly.
I liked him so much.
Prayers & Hugs to the family.
I am so sorry for your great loss.
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