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John Tanner Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John Tanner
Ann Collins Williams
March 7, 2009
Dearest Fran,
I recently heard of the passing of your husband. My heart broke when I heard. You are in my prayers. My husband has been battling cancer for the past 2 years, so I know what you went through. He is in remission, but his cancer is not curable. God Bless you. Much Love, Ann
Becky Linville
February 22, 2009
Fran, I was so sorry to hear of your loss. My husband,Doug, played basketball with John at BJC the year they won the state. Doug loved John and talked of how tough he was. In my mind both of you look as you did in 1968 when I visited Doug. Unfortunately, Doug also lost his battle with cancer December 20th. Hard to believe two such strong, vital men would be gone so soon. My thoughts are with you.
Becky Linville
Jan and Jerry Brooks
February 21, 2009
Fran,
We are so sorry for your loss. We had no knowledge of so many facets of John's life that were described in Florida Today. What a wonderful man.
Cheryl Wermuth
February 19, 2009
Man, talk about a legendary giant...I was just the tag along little sister who looked up to both Johnny and Fran with awe! (Class of 66). Fran and her family were friends as well as neighbors and it was wonderful to live vicariously through her fairy tale marriage and life. All my love and prayers to you Fran & fam...he will be greatly missed but never forgotten. ps when did LuLu change her name to Caroline?! [email protected]
Kathy West-Johnson
February 19, 2009
So sorry for your loss. I knew John
when I was 6 yrs. old. He and my Aunt and Uncle were really good friends. So was my family. I will always remember him teasing me and
picking me up and twirling me around.
All though I haven't seen him in many
years, I will always remember him.
He was a really good person. May God help you heal during your time of
sorrow.
Ben Garrison
February 17, 2009
I knew John for many, many years. We ran around together during and after our school years. I lost touch with him in the 70's. John will be missed so very much. What a gap this leaves in my heart.
Vance Eaddy
February 17, 2009
February 17, 2009
To the family of John V. Tanner, Sr.:
Please accept my deepest condolences and sympathy for the loss of John.
Forty plus years ago, while we were both students at Brevard Junior College, John and I worked together in a small group as janitors at Cocoa High School. John was a true hero to me and all in our group. He had served his country honorably, was on a full basketball scholarship, and had a wonderful wife and family. He always wore a smile, exuded a pleasant, happy demeanor and kept a positive outlook no matter what task we were assigned. But most of all, he was a nice person.
John was unselfish and did not hesitate to share his knowledge of athletics and life. During breaks and after work, he showed us a few boxing, wrestling, and basketball moves. He taught me how to water ski. John was truly a "natural," athlete and coach.
While life eventually sent us on different paths, I will always be grateful for having known and worked with John.
God grant you peace for your loss and comfort in the knowledge that John's life enriched many.
Tom La Forge
February 16, 2009
John Tanner & Rod Demps (Deceased)
I want to use this opportunity to thank you both for salvaging a High School Football Team may years ago. You as the Coach John along with a very close friend of mine Dan Miller and our star player Rod Demps (Col. Rod Demps) deceased.
You were a hero in those young players eyes and I feel you gave Rod a good start by getting him a football scholarship. His untimely death was also a shock to us all. He was a career officer and had he lived longer would have probably made the rank of general. You both exemplified what all men respect love for family, country and fellow men.
GOD BLESS YOU BOTH, and Your Families whom should be very proud of two truely great American Athletes, Soldiers and Men.
Tom La Forge
Fellow schoolmate CHS, Viet Nam Vet. Coach, and KSC Worker.
Victoria Salonen
February 16, 2009
Dearest Fran, I am saddened by the news. My deepest sympathy's to you, Vance and Josh. Sedona loved his Pappa John. I am sure they are eating a big steak together in heaven. Again I am so sorry about your loss. I am here if you need anything. God be with you always
Love,
Victoria
Paula Pates
February 16, 2009
My mother, Susie Davis knew John when he was a young boy growing up with her boys, Dale and Jerry. Her grandson Rocky's middle name was Vance in honor of John. She sends her love and prayers to the family
Bill Bibby
February 16, 2009
I knew "Coach Tanner" only very briefly in my high school years. He served as a volunteer defensive line coach during my senior year at MCC (1977). That I remember him after these 30-plus years is a testament to the kind of man he was. To Coach Tanner's family and friends, he touched a great many people during his long and full life. You are in my prayers.
Dixie Wermuth/ Van Aernam
February 16, 2009
Dear Fran: I just received notice of Johnny. I am deeply and truly sorry.I miss and love you so much.
The "Dynamic Duo" gave us inspiration, team spirit, and FUN to all the town, the schools, and our neighborhood. I will always cherish the memories of our growing up. I hope to see you soon.
To Johnny: Goodbye, Godspeed, and Thank you for You, and Serving our Country during the horrible War. Heaven has joyously opened its gates to welcome such a good person! Now, I pray to God that he will embrace your family and all of your friends to help endure this loss.
kevin knight
February 16, 2009
fran,
i don't need to tell you what a great guy john was... i'll miss him and the stories i enjoy telling about him..... kevin knight
Dale Blake
February 16, 2009
I golfed with John from time to time with a good group of guys. JT was fun to be around, he had a great sense of humor. I moved up to Michigan for awhile last year and was saddened to hear of his illness when I moved back. I wish you and your family the best and my deepest sympathies.Dale
Gary
February 15, 2009
JT and Family,
I worked with JT @ USBI for a few years. He was a very outspoked man with a good heart. JT and myself had a good and respectfull relationship. We also both lived in the same neighborhood for a while in Hickory Hill (Titusville).
God rest your soul JT. And GO BLESS AMERICA!
Jesse Malory
February 15, 2009
From a classmate of Cocoa High School, Johnny was always down to earth, and friendly. Never high hat anyone.
Karen & Sharon Stephenson
February 15, 2009
Dear Fran, I remember you and John from BJC days.You both were an inspirational couple and I am glad to have known you. My sister and I are saddened by his passing. Our prayers are with you in your time of sorrow.
Kathie Page
February 15, 2009
Fran, I just saw the news about John. I tried to call, but the message said you weren't accepting calls now. My heart goes out to you and Josh and Vance. All my love and prayers are with you. I will try and get in touch later. Much Love, Kathie
Rhonda Hermanson
February 15, 2009
GT and Family. We are terribly sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rhonda and Scott Hermanson and Family.
Bruce Eaddy
February 15, 2009
I met John when he came back from Viet Nam & worked with him as a janitor at Cocoa High in 68; while he played for BJC. We'd go to the gym & play basketball 1 on 1 during break; and the few times I beat him; he said, If I told anyone I beat him, he'd kill me, with a smile on his face. I 'll never forget him & regret I never saw him since; as I later served in the same 25th Inf. Div. as he did. I'll always miss John as a great man.
Selene (Stevenson) Berg
February 15, 2009
Fran....I am so sorry to hear about John and his passing. I remember you both from High School. It is so nice that you had a wonderful and long life together...I know that you will miss him terribly. My heart goes out to you and your family.
marty and david
February 15, 2009
GT.
We just read the newspaper article about your brother John this morning. I know how much you loved your "little" brother. I only met him a couple of times, but I remember you telling me stories about him that only a loving older brother could tell.
Please know, that David and I are truly sorry for your loss and have you in our thoughts and prayers. Be strong, my friend.
All our love and sympathys. David and Marty
Geri (Stacharowski)Reynolds
February 15, 2009
Dear Fran and family, I read the article today at breakfast and the tears started. That was a beautiful article in the paper very touching. Brought back many memories of both you and John from the days of Cocoa High. My prayers and thought are with you and your family. I went to Cocoa High with both of you and then ended up shortly after graduation working with your Mom, Myrtle Ann. And yes from one of your last entries 1964 was a tight knit class. God Bless.
Dennis Williams
February 15, 2009
Fran.
I am so sorry to hear that you lost John. I know how you feel. I lost my wife of 39 years in Feb. 2007. It may not seem so now but it will get better. My heart goes out to you and the boys. Tho' they aren't boys any more are they?
Dennis
Giff Crippen
February 15, 2009
I played softball for "Rick's Pub" with
John. Although he was much younger
than I, he always treated the older
players like everyone else that he was more closely associated with.
What a great friendly guy!
ALAN KRAH
February 15, 2009
VIETNAM BROTHER ,YOU WERE A HELLA MAN.THAT MADE ME FEEL BETTER.GOOD LUCK MY FRIEND
DENNIS WILLIS
February 15, 2009
SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT JOHN,PLAYED ALOT OF SOFTBALL WITH HIM.
Yolande (Yogie) Robidoux Smith
February 15, 2009
I just finished reading "The man who did so much" in the Florida Today paper and I'm very sorry for your loss. My brother (Walt Robidoux) and I remember you from high school. You and John had many fine years together and many memories in your heart. You will meet again on the other side.
Linda & Dexter Beck
February 15, 2009
Fran ..
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. John's passing was a reminder to us that life is so fragile. We have many fond memories of "days of old" involving you and John -- may the memories you have and the love surrounding you by friends help you through this trying time.
Russell Francis
February 13, 2009
John Tanner was a man's man and one of the first players on the New England Patriots to shake my hand and invite me to join with the "veterans"/older guys when I arrived as a rookie in 1975. Calm and fierce he helped guide me at the start of my career in the NFL. Be well and aloha John. See you on a big wave when I get to the other side. Aloha, #81
John Hannah
February 13, 2009
Although I have lost touch with John, I heard through the Patriots of everyone's loss. My sympathies and prayers are with you all.
John Hannah
TIM CROTTY
February 13, 2009
most sincere condolences - B co 1/35 1966
Thomas Mayberry
February 13, 2009
I am sorry to hear the passing of Mr. Tanner I did not know him but his son josh was a friend of mine and he spoke nothing but good things about his father. My heart go's out to everyone in the family.
Sheila Ranks
February 12, 2009
Vance,
We were so sorry to read of your Dad's passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Take care,
Sheila & Michael Ranks
Joe Lucas
February 10, 2009
I played football on the undefeated Catic team with John. I'm glad some of us got to fellowship with John in Las Vegas 07. We talked about old
times, John seem to really enjoy him self. I'm glad I was there.
Ed Hill
February 9, 2009
John & I played side by side on the 3rd Bde undefeated Football team in 1965.Members of that team held a Reunion s little over a year ago.John was rowdy,funny,and a Joy to see again.Our John will never change.I'm proud to have had him as a friend.
Roger Thiessen
February 9, 2009
John and I met in Hawaii while serving with the 25 ID. We went to
Vietnam at the same time. John and I were in an ambush together in March 1966. He sure could move for a big guy. Will miss you John and I pray the Lord will Bless your Family.
Carol Burton
February 9, 2009
Fran, Vance, and Josh. Please know that we are thinking of you during the next few weeks as you adjust to life without Johnny. A special note to Vance and Josh: know that your dad was very proud of you both. His influence along with the guidance of your mom has resulted in two good, responsible adults. Love to you all and please keep in touch. Sincerely, Carol (Whatley) and Red Burton.
Marshall Jackson
February 9, 2009
BIG JOHN TANNER was one of the first men i met in 1964. We were assigned to company B, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry, 3rd Brigade, 25th Infantry. John was a good man and great football player. He was a member of the 3rd brigade Bronco Championship Football Team in 1965. Rest in peace BIG JOHN. Fellow soldier, 1964/66.
Paula Davis
February 9, 2009
Dear Fran, I have you and the boys in my prayers. You and John spark so many warm and wonderful memories from "way back when."
Alonzo Jones
February 9, 2009
My condolences go out to the Tanner Family. John Tanner and I were fellow Soldiers in Co B, 1st Bn, 35th Inf, 25th Inf Div (Vietnam). May he REST IN PEACE.
Ken Gray
February 9, 2009
Dear Fran,
I am so very sorry. I had no idea that Johnny had been ill so this came as a total surprise to me. It’s always a shame when we lose touch with friends especially when living in the same community. I wish there was something I could say or do to ease your pain, but I know there isn’t. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Diana Fike
February 8, 2009
I knew John as a young boy. He was friends with my brother. Girls weren't important back then. My deepest sympathy.
Diana (Davis) Fike, Cocoa, FL
Skip Lane
February 8, 2009
Dear Tanner Family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. Haven't seen John for some time, but can still remember the good time him and I had while growing up especially baseball. God Bless
February 8, 2009
To the Tanner Family:
JT was the man among men. He served his country proudly and represented his community well. He was a living legend in sports ie; basketball, football and softball.
He always spoke of his boys in such a way that you knew he was a proud dad. His love for Fran was shown in all of his words and actions. He loved his grandkids as well and he always talked about them to anyone that would listen.
Although I only knew JT for 18 years he was one of my best friends. I will miss him forever and remember him always.
JT always said: you can't make the club in the tub".
JT Save me a spot on the team!
PAPPY
Zena MacLean
February 8, 2009
Peggy and family,
I remember meeting your wonderful family when I was honored to be one of you bridesmaids. I have never forgotten that wonderful time. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Marilyn & Larry Bush (Cobb)
February 8, 2009
Larry joins me in expressing our heartfelt sympathy during this sad time. High school sweethearts who marry and stay married are rare, and you are among that select group, as are we. Our thoughts are with you.
Zandra Buchman Edelstein
February 8, 2009
Dear Fran,
I am very sorry for your loss. I always hear from Ellyn or someone from our class on what is happening and my prayers are with you.
Zandra Buchman Edelstein
Sharon Roberts
February 8, 2009
Dear Fran and Family,
As everyone else I am so sorry for your loss. Like Ellyn said it was always Fran and Johnny. This is a very tough time for you. I pray that your faith in God will get you through.
May you find joy in your memories.
God Bless You
Sharon (Moist)
Jim Barrett
February 8, 2009
Rest In peace Big John ! You are a never forgotten fellow Cacti brother of B co 1/35th Inf Reg, 3rd Bde, 25th Inf Div. Vietnam
Ellyn Chafitz
February 8, 2009
Fran,
My deepest sympathies to you and your family. My heart aches for you.
You and Johnny have been together as far back as i can remember. It was like one word-FranandJohnny.
I hope you find peace and comfort in the arms of your family and friends.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Warm hugs,
Ellyn (Dorfman) Chafitz
ps-
I signed this yesterday but it hasn't appeared. So if you get two of these, just consider yourself doubley thought of.
Otis Brooks
February 8, 2009
Fran and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. John "Big John" and I played football together on the only undefeated football team of the Army in 1965. I can't believe one of my last conversations with him, I chewed him out for allowing me to be sacked 43 years ago.
He was a great friend and a great soldier.
O. J. Brooks
Quarterback 1965
Wendy Wenner Busk
February 8, 2009
Dearest Fran, I am so, so sorry that Johnny had to go so soon. In my memory, you will both always be in high school, glowing in each other's company. I am so glad I knew him. You will be in my heart in the days and weeks ahead.
With deepest sympathy,
Wendy
Loyd Kerns
February 7, 2009
My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Ellyn Chafitz
February 7, 2009
Fran,
My deepest symphathies to you and your family. My heart aches for you. You and Johnny were together as far back as i can remember. It was like one word, FranandJohnny. I tried to e-mail you last week, but the addresss I had was wrong as the e-mail bounced back. I just wanted you to know I've been thinking of you the last couple of weeks. Suanna has kept me in the loop.The class of 64 is a tight knit group ya know.
You're in my prayers.
Warm hugs,
Ellyn (Dorfman) Chafitz
Ernest (Ernie) Dougherty
February 7, 2009
Peggy ~~ Gary & Family;
Sorry to hear of the passing!
Ernie _ Class '53' Cocoa
Ernest (Ernie) Dougherty
February 7, 2009
Peggy & Gary & Family; Sorry to hear of the passing.
Ernie _ Class '53' Cocoa
Dianne Trammell
February 7, 2009
Fran and Family, We have been hearing from friends of Johnny's struggle with cancer. Paul remembers playing football with him in high school and how "tough" he was---but we all were cool and tough in our own ways back then, weren't we? It's unbelievable that we are in our 60's now. It seems like only yesterday we were young and carefree. Cancer is a hard disease to fight, but I'm sure it is a blessing that John's suffering is over. Our prayers are with you and your family. Our hope is that you will find the peace and comfort in great memories and the love that you shared together. Love, Paul and Dianne (Holland) Trammell
Gerry Trammell
February 7, 2009
Words alone cannot express my deepest sympathy for your loss.
Gerry Hyatt Trammell
Class of '60
Susie Davis
February 7, 2009
Our thoughts are with you all. I have very fond memories of Fran & Johnnie. He was special.
Jan Weinberg Davis Boren
February 7, 2009
Dear Fran,
Was so sorry to hear of John's passing. Our Rocky's middle name was Vance after John & I have fond memories of him from many years ago. Hope your memories, your children & your trust in the Lord will bring you comfort over the coming years. Love, Jan Davis Boren
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