John Charles Lenahan

John Charles Lenahan, aged 82, passed away on November 17, 2023 after a long battle with cancer. He led a life filled with love, devotion, and cherished moments.

John grew up on Staten Island, NY where he met his future wife, Diane Lenahan. He graduated from Niagara University in 1962 and St. John's Law School in 1966. While in law school he and Diane were married. His dedication to serving his country led him to the U.S. Army, where he served as a Captain in the Judge Advocate General's Corps from 1966 to 1971. Eventually John and Diane moved to Fairfax County, Virginia where they lived for over 40 years and raised their two daughters, Suzanne and Jacqueline.

Throughout his 40 year legal career, John became a fierce litigator and tenacious advocate for his clients. He served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney during the Watergate era, where he litigated cases in federal trial and appellate courts in Washington D.C. He then moved into working at the Air Line Pilots Association representing pilots in judicial and administrative proceedings, eventually moving into a position as the Director of Insurance and Retirement. John then entered into private practice, first starting his own law firm and then as a partner with Evenson, McKeown, Edwards and Lenahan ,and later with Crowell & Moring.

John was a selfless and devoted husband, a loving parent, and a doting grandparent, always traveling to attend their sporting event or school activities. His warm and genuine personality touched the lives of all who knew him. He had a deep appreciation for culture, indulging in travel, theater, and fine dining. Engaging in conversations about current events and politics was a passion.

In his leisure time, John found joy in the outdoors. He embarked on hiking trips with close friends, enjoyed the thrill of skiing, and found tranquility in fly fishing. He also had a passion for travel, golf, and boating on the Potomac River. John loved going to the theater and fine dining with his family and friends. He was an avid supporter of the Washington Nationals and Washington Commanders, cheering them on with unwavering loyalty.

He is predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Diane M. Lenahan. Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Jacqueline Kulas (Chad) and Suzanne Nyfeler (George); and his grandchildren, Andrew, Irish, Caroline, Anna Kate, and Wyatt. John is also survived by his brothers, Michael (Helen) and Robert (Lee), brother-in-law Jim Costello (Ginger), and sister-in-law Eileen Winrock (Kevin). He was preceded in death by his parents Kathryn and Mathias Lenahan and parents-in-law James and Blanche Costello.

A funeral service will be held at Saint Bridget's Church in Richmond, Virginia on December 18 at 11:00 a.m., with a visitation at 9:30 a.m. A celebration of life will be held on December 29 at the Army Navy Country Club (Fairfax) at 12PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his honor to John Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center.

John leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication. His memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace.