John W. Kinter

Kinter, John W.
John W. Kinter was born May 2, 1941 in Britton, OK. However, he always prided himself in being a "C.I.O. (a California improved Okie!)". He returned to the Lord on Thursday, July 9, 2009 after a brief, courageous battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings. "Big John" is survived by his loving wife of almost 33 years, Kathy and his sister Bertha Starr, and 4 children; Cindy (Hector) Rodriguez, John Kinter Jr., Belinda Barone and Becky (Rob) Robison. He is also survived by his five grandchildren; Josh, Stephanie, Vincent, Mason and Grace. John was passionate about life. He was a servant leader in his church and in the community. He became a Master Mason and Shriner in Alaska, then later, when he and Kathy moved to Arizona, he served as Potentate for El Zaribah Shrine in Phoenix, in 2003. John was a 25 plus year member of the Elks. His life was full of zest, through: fishing, hunting and golfing, among other interests. He had a special place in his heart for the state of Alaska, where he spent over 20 years of his life. John met the love of his life Kathy, while they were both working on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. They married, and later moved to the state of Arizona, where he enjoyed barbecues, swimming and spending quality time with family and friends, and his little dog Snitzle. John brought bright light everywhere he went, by making friends and telling stories that made everyone laugh. A visitation will be held Tuesday, July 14 from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. at the Chapel of the Chimes, 7924 N. 59th Ave., Glendale. A memorial service will be on Wednesday, July 15 at 2 p.m. at the Vineyard Church of North Phoenix, 6250 W. Peoria Ave., Glendale. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to be made in John's name to the Shriner's Hospital for Children, (602)231-0300.