John Stuart Townsend

March 18th, 1938 - August 20th, 2024

John Stuart Townsend, born on March 18, 1938, in Kewanee, IL, passed away
peacefully on August 20, 2024 in Ontario, CA. Known for his infectious smile, love of
cats, and the ability to befriend anyone he met, John's vibrant spirit will be dearly
missed by many.

John attended and graduated from Wethersfield High School in 1956. His commitment
to hard work manifested early when he started delivering newspapers at just ten years
old—a work ethic he carried throughout his life.As a young adult joined the Black
Knights Bugle Corps at 17, and later enlisted in the Air Force, where he proudly served
his country in Germany and Pakistan. Upon returning to the U.S., John built a long
career as a driver, working for multiple companies as well as an owner/operator.
John is survived by his wife and best friend, Janet Townsend; sister, Helen Fuhr; and
children Michael Burmeister, Heidi (Juergen) Peter, Amy (Joe) DePauw, Angela
(Patrick) Kelley, Amy Braden, and Billy (Leslie) Braden. John was also a cherished
grandfather to 17 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by
several cousins, nieces and nephews. John was predeceased in death by his parents,
Lester and Vada Townsend, and his brother, Donald Townsend and his son, Chad
Townsend.

A service to celebrate John's life, with military honors, will be held on Friday, September
13, 2024, commencing promptly at 11:00 AM, at Riverside National Cemetery. A
luncheon will follow at the Rancho Ontario Mobile Home Park Community Center.
The Townsend family extends their gratitude to the staff at Kaiser for their continuous
care of John. They believe his cheerful personality and enduring positivity brightened
the days of those he encountered. In lieu of flowers, they kindly request that donations
be made to the Pomona Valley Humane Society or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in
John's name.

John's smile and positivity will always be remembered. As we continue our lives without
him, we can find comfort in following his example of kindness and friendship. His spirit
continues to be an inspiration for us all and we ask you to consider carrying his spirit of
kindness forward.