John Semb

SEMB, John Harry Passed away unexpectedly on March 23, 2010 at Sacred Heart Hospital , Spokane WA at the age of 85. He is survived by his wife Vernal Semb; his daughters Janet (Steve)Bartlett, Yelm WA, Kathleen Speicher (Bruce Farnham) of Denver CO; son Dennis(Nanette) Semb of Spokane, WA; grandchildren Crystal Simcoff, Sedona AZ, Martin Barela, ShanghaiChina, Erik Speicher (Krista Duke) Denver CO, Dustin (Jennifer) Semb, Shawn Semb, Stephanie Semb; and two great-grandchildren Fiona and Madeline Semb of Spokane, WA; ex son-in-law, Keith Speicher, Parker CO. John was born in Schuyler, NE to Anton and Florence Semb. The family moved to Silverton, OR when he was a small child. After graduating from Silverton High School in 1942 he joined the Navy where he proudly served as a sonar technician on a sub chaser. After the war John moved to San Jose, CA where he learned the carpet trade. This is also where he met Vernal George whobecame his wife and partner of 60 years. They were always known as "John and Vern". John graduated from Oregon Tech in Klamath Falls, OR as a diesel mechanic and in 1956 moved to Spokane where they lived for 55 years. John owned a carpet installation business for many years. He enjoyed andprovided beautiful workmanship in the carpet field. In 1975 John and Vern built and operated the Wickerbill Tavern in Spokane Valley until he retired in 1996. After retirement John enjoyed spending time with his family and their home at Newman Lake, fishing, boating, snowmobile and watching the birds, squirrels and other small animals. John loved to travel in the motor home, and visiting such places as Mexico and Central America. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in lieu of flowers. SPOKANE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE.