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Johnie Kirton Obituary
SaberCats owner and head coach Darren Arbet called Kirton a "great team guy and hard-nosed player."
The team says Kirton died Monday in Santa Clara, Calif. A cause of death was not released.
SaberCats players will honor Kirton's memory by wearing stickers on their helmets with his number 37 in their game Saturday against the Milwaukee Mustangs.
Kirton also played for the Chicago Rush and the Arizona Rattlers as well as the SaberCats during three seasons in the AFL.
Copyright © 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
226 Entries
Dustin Eney
March 17, 2024
Happy Birthday brother . Still telling funny stories of you and enjoyed the fun times .
Dustin Eney
March 17, 2022
Thinking of you as always on this day . I whole heartedly enjoyed you as a friend and you´re still in my thoughts and heart .
Kelly Anthony
January 20, 2013
We met briefly a couple times through mutual friends during college out and about having fun and I recall the last time remembering how sweet , charming, and how mature you are. may you rest in paradise
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johnie williams
September 9, 2012
Johnie the pain of not getting to see u again is something that I will never ever get over I love u and will always miss u... Love. Your dad. Johnie Russell Williams
Darris Drake Jr
June 14, 2012
Darris Drake Jr. would like to say how sorry he is over the loss of Johnnie Kirton. He is sadden to think that someone so good can be gone so soon. He remembers the times they played together at his grandma's house. Johnnie give my grandma a big hug.
Ted Contos
June 11, 2012
Rest in peace Johnie, from one of your Chicago Rush fans.
Sara Ray
June 8, 2012
May the light of your smile continue to radiate from up above upon all of us! Rip Johnie taken too soon
June 7, 2012
RIP
Kelvin Morris
June 7, 2012
My Lil bruh we has so much left to do I know u in a better place
Renee McLaughlin
June 7, 2012
I will always remember Johnie's smile :D
Nik Gearardo
June 7, 2012
Johnie, I did not know you but I knew of you. You were a senior at Jackson when I was a freshman. Needless to say I was intimidated but I now regret never introducing myself. I didn't even know you and I already knew who you were. You made a huge impact on this world and I will be sure to say hi this time when I see you on the other side.
Mike May
June 7, 2012
Johnie, you left a big impact on the Chicago Rush family. Not because of your multiple record breaking acheivements, because of who you were as a person. Your infectious smile, & how you cared about everyone. Players, coaches, & fans have all become better people because of your prescence. For the short time I got to know you, I will always consider you my friend. We'll meet up again, & I'll bring some Candied Brats for ya. R.I.P. "Jumpin" Johnie
Sean Reeve
June 7, 2012
I went to Jackson high school with Johnie kirton and i will never forget the the person that he was. He was one of the nicest people i have ever met and an absolute beast on the field. I sat next to him in my first class ever when i was new as a sophomore, the way he would tear through the defensive line on the weekend was a feat i thought was impossible.The world lost a great person, Jackson lost a legend, and we will never forget the good times.... Sorry to see you go buddy, GO HUSKIES.
Irene David
June 7, 2012
Sad
Isaiah Stanback
June 6, 2012
Johnie was more then just my running back and my tight end. He was my Friend, my mentee and my inspiration. Oh and don't forget one of the funniest guys on the planet. He was a man whom was battle tested and knew what it really meant to persevere. Never Scared, Never Backed down from a Challenge. That's the Johnie I know, that's the Johnie I love and that's the Johnie that will forever live in my heart.
Judy (Ms. P) Pearson
June 6, 2012
Many of us hope to make a positive difference in this life before moving on to the next. Johnie accomplished that, and I can think of no greater tribute to him or to the family who raised him.
For me personally, he provided one of my most cherished retirement gifts when I left JHS in 2003, and he did it "Johnie style" - simply with words. He popped into my office to remind me that, while I was leaving, we would always share three things that made us soul mates: "a big smile, lookin' out for the little guy, and celebrating our birthday on St. Patrick's Day".
Well Johnie, we're still soul mates: I still smile a lot, especially when I think of people like you; I'm still watching out for the little guy, but will do it now for both of us; and I will toast you, one of the dearest young men I've had the pleasure of knowing every year on our B.D.
June 6, 2012
May the Lord carry u like footprints in the sand...
Lynette Sundholm
June 6, 2012
My deepest sympathy to the Kirton family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Shannon Gilmore
June 6, 2012
Our hearts goes out to the entire Kirton family. Our daughter's went to Jackson with Johnie. It has saddened us all that such a wonderful young man was taken too soon.
I remember being at a football game and after the game Johnie came to say hi to his family and what I remember most is him holding his baby sister and smiling down on her with such love, it just spoke to what kind of a human being he was. We'll keep all of you in our prayers.
Phyllis Ellington
June 5, 2012
A lost of such a great player that my son Donte Ellington was given the opportunity to know with his first year with the Sabercats. My heart truly goes out to his family, friends and team mates. We all should cherish the time we have with our love ones, we never know when it will be our last.
Bud Bell
June 4, 2012
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
June 4, 2012
Doug, Heather, Dionna, Jocelyn, Dominique, and Jadyn...we were so sad and shocked to hear about Johnie. Your family always has been very special to our family. From the time we moved in to the neighborhood, our kids and your kids always hung out together and shared many special times. Johnie always watched out for everyone, not only your girls but our kids too. He was like a big brother to everyone in the cul-de-sac. He always had a smile on his face and warm hello on his many travels in and out of our little neighborhood. You are all in our thoughts and prayers through this very difficult time. If there is anything we can do, please do not hesitate to give us a call. Jim, Mary, Olivia, Kayley, Brenna and Carson Church
Ali Washington
June 4, 2012
I remember how excited you were to go to Africa. You came into my office smiling and wanting to give everyone a hug. You were so friendly. We will miss you. Univ. of WA SAAS
friend
June 4, 2012
Adam Stone
June 4, 2012
You treated my family with respect and kindness. You entertained thousands and did it with a smile that I will never forget.
Satin-Deseree Arnett
June 4, 2012
R.I.P. cousin... You know you were the star of our family not just football, we all love and miss you... say hi to Robert for me!
June 4, 2012
Prayers for the family of this talented young man gone too soon.
just joined the sanercats
unknown
June 4, 2012
June 4, 2012
My deepest sympathy to the entire family, let God be for you a refuge and strength to help you copy during the difficult times ahead, may He provide you with peace and comfort . Psalms 46:1
Robin
anissa WARREN
June 3, 2012
may the lights from the heavens enter into your lives andmaywe we all as a familyy not lose the closeness .learn from this family please.im so hurt i have to go just know u all have my love.andthe love from teasha,stan,jimbob,rienettiescildren.THEWARRENFAMILYSENDSTHIERLOVETOALLFAMILYSGREIVINGAT THIS TIME.OH TO MY LITTLE CUZS MOM WHOM I NEVER MET BABY PLEASE CALL NIKIII GET MY #from conseualaoh oh and i would like for all my cuzs to com to moses to have life celabrationfor johnie someday at dunes
james warren
June 3, 2012
He was a great player my famliy i never got to meet him but from what the famliys says he is a good man and will be missed go uw rip jon jon
June 3, 2012
Words cannot express the sadness I feel. While I was on staff at Jackson High there times I would call upon Johnie. I was looking at times
for someone to have lunch with a new student,
whenever I asked him he was always there to help me out. See if you had lunch with Johnie it meant you had a new friend, no matter what grade you were in. My prayers are with Your family.
Kathy Vail
Scott Stead
June 3, 2012
Johnie
I was amazed at both your skill and size as one of your freshman football coaches at Jackson. By the end of that year I was amazed more by your smile and laughter. Great teammate and greater person. Scott Stead
Alena Fogl
June 3, 2012
We miss you Johnie and wish you were still here. We love you.
June 3, 2012
So sorry for your loss. May the peace of GOD... rule over your hearts during this very difficult time.
The Gronenthal's
Cory Nicol
June 3, 2012
Johnie had such a positive impact on everyone he came across. He was full of life and truly a special person. I knew Johnie for just a short time, but he left a lasting impression on me. That is why I feel inclined to write about it. Johnie had a lifetime's worth of an impact on this world in just 26 short years. You changed the world for the better. Rest in peace my friend. You will never be forgotten.
Gerhardt Family
June 2, 2012
We are so saddened by your loss. I know your faith will carry you through and that God will provide comfort. You have an amazing family and you raised an incredible young man that was taken way too soon. Our prayers are with you.
Larson Family
June 2, 2012
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. You have an amazing family and strong faith that will help you during this difficult time. Love to you all
Glenna Meadows
June 2, 2012
Oh Johnie Boy.
Although it seems too soon for you to leave us on Earth, I understand that your mission on Earth is complete.
God has plans for you taking care of his children. He could not have picked a better soul.
I am so happy to have known you and there will always be a special place for you in our hearts. I am not worried that you are gone, I know you are in good hands, my friend.
Grandma Ginger will miss her sexy baby but don't worry about her, we are there to take care of her.
You will continue to shine through the family as you always have.
Your baby girl will be just fine, we all love her and will make sure she is well taken care of! Just think, you can visit her anytime you want!
We expect to see you when our missions are complete. Stop by and say hi once in a while. Your smile always made everything ok.
Your Friend,
Glenna Meadows
Andile Gova
June 2, 2012
I'm a good friend of Johnie and Erick.We connected from the moment we met.I met him when he was here in South Africa in 2008 and we clicked from the onset.When they left I told them that we'll meet in the States by God's grace.I went to the States in 2010 and I call him and he reminded me that I said we'll meet in the States and God came thru.
I'll miss him,he never forget my birthday and I never forget his.I spoke to him,we last talked four days back.
He was a good I'm not afraid to say that and our condolences go out to all the family.God bless you(John 14:1-3).Andile Gova(Port Elizabeth,South Africa)
June 2, 2012
Thank you Mr. & Mrs. Kirton for giving me the opportunity to know your amazing son. I was a sophmore when he was a Sr at Jackson I played on the football team with him and one of the many things i admired about him was the fact that eventhough he was Johnie Kirton who had his own theme song!!! (Johnie be good!) and was just an amazing athlete with so much buzz around him he never got big headed and I felt so honored and cool that he was willing give me a nobody sophmore that he had practically just met a ride to school in the mornings (in his suburau lol)and home after practice. And I remember thinking when the buzz started getting big that he was going to get big headed but he never did he stayed true and I will always respect him and admire him for being the honest and kind spirited man that he is. you guys should be extremely proud...and again I thank you for raising him to be the man he has become.
He will always be a inspiration to me and off the field)and will forever be in my thoughts and memories and I look forward to seeing him when my time comes and I know that until then he is smiling down on us with that big grin of his. - Anthony Davis
John Gundersen
June 1, 2012
I attended high school with Johnie. I was not close friends with him but I admired and respected him. I just remember walking past him in the halls of Jackson and he would say hey, and ask how I was doing. Now that sounds simple enough but I was a virtual nobody so for him to take a moment to do something so small meant a lot and made me respect and admire the person he was even more. Rest in Peace Johnie, you are gone far too young but as many have said you will NEVER be forgotten.
Eric Reed
June 1, 2012
Johnie,
You were a special athete but a better father and friend. I may have been your coach for a short time, but you taught me more than you know. Family and football that is how we knew each other. We shaired a lot of similar things. You are the main reason why I am where I am this season. I will keep my promise to you about returning the favor. We will see each other again.
-Eric Reed
Susan Campbell
June 1, 2012
My heart goes out to the family. My son Ryan knew Johnie at Jackson. I lost a son in January and I know how sad it is.
rodrick jones
June 1, 2012
My prayers go out to heather!!
Johnie r kirton I miss u like crazy big brother I just spoke with you 2 days befor you're game tellin me it was a good trade we gon eat! U asked how grandma pearl (big momma) was doin and you said keep me posted lil bruh and I love you and that you was gunna call me later after your game. I always kept you updated on the family. You had said as a lil bro should. can't believe your gone. See you when I get up their bro I love you and always will
Your brother rodrick jones
Jesse Waite
June 1, 2012
I haven't seen Johnie since high school, but we were both Everett boys and I wish I'd known him better. I remember he and I were in the middle of a fight between two friends, and when the room cleared out only Johnie and I were left, sharing a confused smirk and jokingly asking each other what the heck had just happened. I lost an older brother too, so you'll get through it. Johnie was a gentle giant and born leader, so he must leave some pretty large shoes to fill. That's just all the more reason that they'll be filled, because that's how he would have had it.
Angela
June 1, 2012
MAY GOD KEEP YOU IN THIS TIME.
Tina
June 1, 2012
I remember Johnie as a youth in Everett. I was one of the youth leaders at the time. He was always a happy guy and very ambitious about life. My heart truly goes out to his family. I know that God is deep in their hearts and will be their comforter. You are all in my prayers.
Alfrieda Judson Dixon
June 1, 2012
May God Bless you in this moment of sorrow. Your entire family will be in my prayers. As I do not know you personally, It must be extremely hard to lose a love one SO young. I pray you PEACE and COMFORT.
Tammy Jernigan
June 1, 2012
Doug, Heather and girls...I am so sad to hear about Johnie's passing. I know what an incredible man he was. I will pray for comfort and strength. Love to you all!
A Loving Mother
June 1, 2012
Oh my heart just goes out to the entire family. No greater love is there between mother and there child. Being a mother myself cannot imagine the pain of heart you are going through at this time. May knowing others care give you a measure of comfort. God see your tears flow and pain of heart, "He is near to those that are broken at heart; And those who are crushed in spirit he saves." He will give you the needed strength to just go from one day to next. So that "the power beyond what is normal may be God's and not that out of ourselves"
My Sincere Condolences
Kitty Estes
June 1, 2012
Heather, my prayers are with you in this very difficult time, there are no words for me to express my sadness, to learn of Johnie's passing. Although we have not seen each other for years, we started this very rewarding, but also tough journey of motherhood together, and you did a excellent job!!! May God comfort you and your family with his everlasting peace and Love.
Tabitha
June 1, 2012
During this most difficult time may the family reflect on the wondeful hope found in God's word the Bible, that one day death will be a thing of the past.
Leigh Dennis
June 1, 2012
I went to highschool with Johnie such an amazing guy. He was so nice to me when others weren't. I am very sorry for your loss my prayers are with your family.
Michele Rimmele
June 1, 2012
Dear Heather & Doug,
We are deeply saddened to hear of your lose. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Carl & Michele Rimmele
Leasha Kirvin
May 31, 2012
This is Johnies father side of the family we would like to send our condolences to the Kirton family we LOVE HIM AND MISS HIM TO. I WOULD APPRECIATE IF THE KIRTON FAMILY COULD CALL ME ONE OF HIS FIRST COUSINS I'M HERE IN SEATTLE REACH ME AT 206 687-6292 OR HIS FATHERS MOTHERS 425 374-7522 IN EVERETT WASHINGTON, WOULD GREATLY APPRECIATE IT. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN THIS TIME NEED.
Terry Huffer
May 31, 2012
Heather and Family ~ My sincere sympathy to you all. I was deeply saddened at the news of Johnie's passing. I too as a parent could never imagine the grief you must be experiencing. Heather, I will always remember the speech you gave at Jackson High Schools Mother's Tea, just before graduation, when you talked about yours and Johnie's relationship as a mother and son and how you called him your "Big Teddy Bear". And a big teddy bear he was. He touched so many lives and was a friend to so many. He will be sorely missed by so many. May you lean mostly on God for comfort to get you through this but also on your family and friends who you know will be there for you. May the best of memories always be held close to your heart. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sylvia
May 31, 2012
Rest in peace! My deepest sympathy to your family.
Karen Page
May 31, 2012
My deepest sympathy and Prayers to the Family, friends and teammates of Johnie Kirton.
Leslie
May 31, 2012
May the Most High God comfort you all during this time of deep sorrow.
May 31, 2012
Heather and Doug,
My deepest heartfelt sympathy to you and your family. No words can express my sadness at hearing Johnie's passing, I as a father cannot imagine the grief you are experiencing. I take with me the opportunity to have known Johnie as a young fella and the wonderful man he blossomed into. Johnie thank you for enriching my life & of those you crossed. Heather and Doug may you lean on God to find comfort during this time.
-Al & Geoff Hunter
Barbara Koback
May 31, 2012
Heather and family,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. No words can begin to express my sadness when I heard of your dear sons passing. As a mother I can only imagine your grief. I wish I would had the opportunity to have met this wonderful man. I was blessed to have had the opportunity to enjoy watching him play football as a Huskey. May you find comfort and peace in God, family and friends at this most trying time.
Hamlin Family
May 31, 2012
Prayers and lots of warmth for the Kirton Family and friends.
May 31, 2012
My deepest sympathy to the Kirton family. May God give you the comfort and strength needed at this grievous time. Psalms 55:22.
Jem D. Florida
alice
May 31, 2012
I'm so sorry for you lose. My you find comfort in God's promise to see our dear loved ones again john 6:40.
Alexandria Rouse Lewis
May 31, 2012
May God comfort the Kirton Family.
Christine Whitmyer
May 31, 2012
I would like to send my deepest thoughts to Johnie family may God be with during this time and here in California I know that all the SaberCats Team and Fans prayers are with the family. We only knew him for a short time he put alot of spirit into the team we will all miss him.
Laura Jopling
May 31, 2012
Johnie was in my class my first year at Gateway Middle School! He was a kid who came in your class and made an impact on all of those around him. He will never be forgotten! Rest in peace young man.
Cindy Wilson
May 31, 2012
Way to young. May God be with his family. Give them the strength to get through these next days, weeks and months. He will be waiting for you with open arms.
Bill Claridge
May 31, 2012
Johnie, may God rest your soul. R I P 37
Zach Tang
May 31, 2012
RIP Johnie Kirton
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family at this time. No other Husky Football player touched my life as you did with your infectious smile and fun loving positive attitude. You will truly be missed and I will never forget the time we shared or the big smile, hug, and high 5 you gave me going into your last apple cup. Forever in our hearts, forever in Purple and Gold... RIP Bubba
Johnie with the Chicago Rush in 2011
May 31, 2012
Johnie with the Chicago Rush in 2011
May 31, 2012
Johnie with the Chicago Rush in 2011
May 31, 2012
May 31, 2012
On behalf of the entire Chicago Rush organization, we send our sincerest condolences to the Kirton family. Johnie was a great man.
Alyssa
May 31, 2012
I'm sorry for you loss. May you find comfort in the God of peace.
Max Van Hollebeke
May 31, 2012
Kirton Family,
I went to high school at Archbishop Murphy in Everett but had a few friends at Jackson HS who were hit hard by the death of Johnie. He sounds like a great man, leader, and father. He'll be missed dearly.
Michelle Mosher
May 31, 2012
You Touched A Lot Of Hearts And Made A Big Impact On So Many People...You Were Also One Hell Of A Football Player. You Will Be Greatly Missed.
Tendai Magwanyata
May 31, 2012
Johnie . You have left us too son my friend. You made a difference when you came down to South Africa. I fund a really good friend and now i don't have anyone to look forward to seeing in D.C May heaven embrace you with open arms. Big 37. Well played friend. Go well.
Brad Vanneman
May 31, 2012
Johnie was the type of guy who united people in the locker room with is infectious personality and easy smile. He was a great player on the field with the versatility to play anything from RB to TE to DL. But he was even better off of it with the way he treated his teammates and everyone else he came in contact with. He brought a light to his world and made the lives of everyone he touched better. He will be truly missed. My prayers are with his family and with his young daughter.
Shirley G
May 31, 2012
My heart breaks for Johnie's family, friends and fans. May God be with you all during this very sad occasion.
Wanda Kramer-Macias
May 31, 2012
I will always remember Johnie's smiling face in my middle school Home Ec class - ready to cook and sew with a delightful, respectful, upbeat attitude. He was an example for all. What a loss for all who knew him and for those yet to have been so privileged.
Maryann Ramsey
May 31, 2012
I didn't know Johnie, but my good friend Rhonda Addison says he was an awesome person! I just wanted to offer my condolences knowing there are no words of comfort. I lost my teenage daughter in a car accident almost 8 years ago, I feel your pain and will keep you in my prayers.
Terri Thrapp
May 31, 2012
RIP Johnie!!! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.. Gone But Not Forgotten!!! Husky Nation loves and misses you.. We will never forget you in the Purple and Gold..
Rhonda Addison
May 31, 2012
Dearest Kirton family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Johnny and my son, Brady Jesson, were good friends throughout middle school and high school. Johnny spent a lot of time at our house and we absolutely loved him! Always smiling, polite, appreciative, funny and adorable! We were so thankful that Brady had found such a great kid to hang around with! We are so sorry for your loss and we will keep you in our prayers. Our love and deepest sympathy.
Rhonda (Jesson) Addison, Brady and Brooke Jesson
Mike Eidsmoe
May 31, 2012
Johnie, you were an inspiration as a peer and track teammate. Rest in Peace.
Thomas Strausbaugh
May 31, 2012
My prayers are with the Kirton family. My high school years were spent in their basement! I miss Johnie and know that I will see him again in glory. Bubba was a great teammate and a great person. I have too many memories to count. My prayers are with his family.
deborah head
May 31, 2012
Iamverysorrowabouttoparentofwholosttherechildinaearlyage
Peter Moreno
May 31, 2012
RIP Johnie! You will never be forgotten. You brought joy and happiness to the world. It was an honor Playing football at Jackson with you during your Senior year.
Heather Fadden
May 31, 2012
Our deepest condolences go out to the Kirton family.
Leasha Kirvin
May 31, 2012
MAY GOD KEEP US IN THIS TIME OF SORROW. NOW I KNOW IT'S TIME TO GET IT TOGETHER, MEANING TURNING OUR LIFE OVER TO GOD THAT'S 2 NOW IN THIS GENERATION GONE BEFORE THE PARENTS. I LUV Y'ALL ALL IF U!!!!!!! LISA ANN
Peter Moreno
May 31, 2012
RIP Johnie, you truly were a stand out person. I am very glad I met you and played football with you. You touched so many and you will never be forgotten!
Efrain Perez
May 31, 2012
When Johnie had the ball,it was JOHNIE TIME!!!!!. Johnie as a Chicago Rush fan, you will be deeply missed. God Bless!!!!
Leasha A Kirvin
May 31, 2012
Johnie you will be miss something awful but I know your in a better place and looking down on us . Tell aunt Nettie aunt Lisa uncle Charles uncle Robert grandpa cousin Caleb we LOVE YALL & MISS YA. BOONY STAY STRONG STAY IN PRAYER YOUR LISA ANN
May 31, 2012
Dear Friend,
I'm sorry of your love one having fallen asleep in death. May the comfort of of the account at John 11:43,44 bring comfort to all of you in this period of sorrow.
Yvonn Ryan
Summerville S.C.
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