John Whitcomb

On Monday, February 12, 2024, John Baker Whitcomb, age 75, passed away at his home in Spokane after a short illness. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Linda, sons Aaron (Jana) and Shawn (Maddy), and granddaughter Brynn. He is also survived by his sisters Phyllis and Barbara and their families.

John and his twin sister, Barbara, were born in the Panama Canal Zone to parents Gordon and Virginia Whitcomb. His father’s service in the Air Force took the family to many destinations including Washington, Alaska, Texas, and France. Boating, water skiing, and camping were summer pastimes in Texas and John’s love of boating took hold there. John and Linda owned several boats during their marriage, and John passed on that boating love, as well as boating skills, to his sons.

After John graduated from Eastern Washington University with a BA in business he began a career in banking, first with Seafirst Bank in Seattle, and ending with US Bank in Oregon. After some soul-searching, he changed gears and moved back to the Seattle area to start a marine repair business. John and Linda ultimately retired and moved to Spokane for a quieter lifestyle. In Spokane and no longer boating, he developed an interest in buying and selling sports cars. He made many wonderful friends in the local Porsche Club. 

John had a special talent and seemingly could fix anything, whether at home, on a boat, or on a car. He was patient in sharing his knowledge with family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a yet-determined date this summer, at Diamond Lake near Spokane. John was devoted to, and much loved by his family and many friends. He will be greatly missed.