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John PAYNE Obituary
Spokane Valley - John Richard Payne passed away on April 27th, 2025, at the age of 66. He was born in Arlington Heights Village, Illinois, on December 7th, 1958, and lived most of his life in the Pacific Northwest. He was a graduate of Idaho State University and Montana State University. A well-read, historian, philosopher, and accomplished chef, he worked at, "The Otter Bay," "The Wolf Lodge," and finished his career at the "The Rusty Moose." He loved philosophy and will be remembered for his intellect, warmth, and wisdom. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Teresa; his daughter, Elise; and his siblings, Scott Payne, Carolyn Goode, and Jim Payne. He was preceded in death by his sister, Susan "Sue"; and his parents, Vera "Dookie" Leighton, and James Payne. A memorial will be held on July 24th, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., at Thornhill Valley Chapel, Spokane Valley. All who knew him are welcome.
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