John Ray Altizer

About eight year's ago I met John when I stopped in front of his home to buy some corn that he had out by the road. When I got out of my truck John drove up to me in his golf cart and we began a friendship. the conversation started with, this is some good Silver Queen corn , I just picked this morning. One thing led to another and before I knew it I was going to Stone Ledge assisted living on Sunday mornings to play the keyboard where John led a small service for the people there.
John has been a great friend and neighbor, I have been privileged to know him.
Bryce Ashmore

In 1966, I had the honor of representing my fellow classmates at Hillsborough High School as a Student Council officer. Every day, five seventeen year olds met for a class period with our sponsor & advisor, John. Our main objective was to serve as voice and liaison between the student body and faculty/administration. John helped us find our voice, taught us diplomacy, parliamentary procedure, decorum, and so many life skills. I often wondered if he knew how much he meant to me and how I tried to emulate him during my 38 years of teaching. In April of 2025, I heard his name mentioned in art class by his friend and neighbor. Without hesitation, we were able to arrange a mini reunion with him and let him know the lasting and positive role he had in each of our lives. I was blessed to have been taught and guided by John. He was the best of the best! I am better for knowing him.

In 1967 I was a Hillsborough High School student in Mr. Altizers biology class. I have never forgotten him with his high standards and expectations of his students. Thru the subject matter he would occasionally let his serious guard down and his humor would come thru providing some relief from the rigor he exuded. Before I went out west to BYU to complete my first degree, I visited teachers, coaches, church leaders, and others who I felt had made a significant difference in my life for good. I traveled to the Altizer home and we discussed my plans but more importantly I left him knowing how and especially why he mattered and the difference he had made in my life. He was so devoted to his students. His love for teaching and conveying the knowledge of science he treasured, at least in my case, just made it's way into my interests and respect for many more aspects of science over the course of my life. I followed off and on over the years when I wondered who else he was affecting the lives of for good. And, there was a common thread with aspects of his character knitted into how he involved himself in the community and agricultural needs he could help support..... A wonderful example and a legacy of service thru faith and an understanding of Christlike principles and values. I am grateful to have had my own life enriched beyond the classroom by him. I try to do likewise influenced by Mr. Altizer and others who had gifts and dedicated their lives to make our world a better place. God bless the Altizer family for the amazing memories they will be able to cherish throughout their lives here on this earth until they are again together beyond the veil of this life by the grace and mercy of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ .

Denise Kelley (Hughes), Class of '69
Sandpoint Idaho