John Walter Buchanan

1945 - 2016

John Walter Buchanan, 70, born in Orange County, Calif., raised in San Juan Capistrano and residing in Farmington for 26 years, passed on to his eternal rest with his Heavenly Father on the afternoon of Thursday, Jan. 7, 2016, surrounded by his close family. John, or ""Papa,"" as he was referred to by many, was born Aug. 30, 1945, to Gene and Juanita Buchanan.
John was an avid adventurer, enjoying skateboarding, surfing in his younger years and later skiing, dune buggies, panning for gold, motorcycles and his BIG LOUD RED van. He was also very inventive and creative, always wanting to patent his latest idea. John had an outstanding willingness to help others around him who were in need by ministering, supporting, inspiring, and counseling in many lives, always seeing it as something that ""needed to be done."" He was multi-talented and amazingly hard working. He was a carpet layer most of his life, and the quality of his work was unrivaled. John's passion was curing dogs of the parvovirus with his herbal tea, as well as sharing his experience and knowledge from 35 years of sobriety with others who struggled. Highly devoted to close family, Papa was especially particular to his grandchildren: nothing too large to ask. John was compelled to do anything to help out and see to their happiness. His faith in Jesus Christ carried him strongly in the last years of his life, knowing that he was a child of his Savior, forgiven and free. ""Have a nice day, and don't forget to pray"" was a quote he often used when saying goodbye. John's life motto was, ""One day at a time!""
John Walter Buchanan is survived by a special love of 15 years, five children, 11 grandchildren and many dear friends.
A special thanks goes out to all those family members and amazing friends who gave their support, prayers and love over these difficult past weeks, and the hospital staff and Dr. Syed Kazmi for such insight and care of John.
Cremation will take place, and no services for John will be held. A remembrance meeting at ""The Well"" will be announced at a later date.
John's care is entrusted to the Cope Memorial Chapel, 404 W. Arrington St. in Farmington, 505-327-5142. Those who wish to express their condolences may do so at serenityandcompany.com.