John Kamphouse Obituary
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John A. Kamphouse, born August 7, 1947 in Bellingham, WA to Dewey & Mickey (Clarence & Marion) Kamphouse, passed away peacefully at his home on September 18, 2025, after a short battle with cancer.
John grew up on the family farm in Sumas, WA. At age 19, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and proudly served his country, stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War. When he returned home, John began work at Georgia Pacific, where he spent 13 years. He later partnered with his brother Neil to operate the family dairy farm until 1990. John and his four farm hands-his beloved children-shared many years of hard work and cherished memories there. After the farm was sold, he spent several years working at Scholten Roofing until his retirement.
John had a lifelong passion for sports, especially his beloved Seattle Mariners-game time was sacred. He played men's fastpitch softball with several local teams and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. He was known for his unforgettable stories, infectious laughter, and the way his tales often brought him-and those listening-to tears of joy. His heart of gold, combined with just the right touch of stubbornness, made him unforgettable to all who knew him. John treasured his time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and his friendships at Sumas Bob's were dear to him. His love for his country was steadfast.
John is survived by his children Josh (Alexis), Sarah (Dustin), Tim (Missy), and Mark; grandchildren Samantha (Andy), Elisabeth (Luke), Ava Ruth, Kaylee (Jaykob), Kyle and Katie; and great-grandchildren Riggs, Luca and Ellie. He also leaves behind his brothers Don (Tress), Bill (Kathy), and Neil; sisters Marilyn (Gordon) Stremler and Virgie (Rudy) Diephuis; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey & Mickey, and his sister Ruth.
A casual celebration of John's adventurous life will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 3:00–6:00 p.m. at the Sumas American Legion, 134 Harrison St. In honor of his love of sports, guests are invited to wear their favorite team attire.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Whatcom Hospice or the Sumas American Legion.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Lee Stockton
November 1, 2025
To all of the Kamphouse Clan,my deepest condolences for the loss of one of the many fascinating and interesting Kamphouse members!! I was fortunate enough to get to know not only John but also many of his family. I was asked to play fast pitch softball when I graduated high school and John was one of the many colorful individuals on the team! John was one of our pitchers and we could always count on him to usually give us a good 7 innings and keep us in the game! Not only were the games fun but the time spent in the bar with John and the gang were an absolute blast!!! I know that all of you are grieving at this time but I hope knowing that John was loved and will never be forgotten. With deepest sympathies, Lee Stockton
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