Joshua John Killinger

In Loving Memory of Joshua “John” Killinger Joshua John Killinger, known throughout his life simply as John, passed away on Monday, August 24, 2026, in Oregon at the age of 47. John was born in Vermont and spent much of his life moving from place to place before eventually making Oregon his home. It was there that he raised his children and built a life centered around what mattered most to him—family. Above everything else, John was a proud and loving father to his two children, Leo and Melina. Being a dad was one of the greatest joys of his life. He loved his children immensely, and fatherhood was such an important part of who John was. John grew up as one of six siblings alongside Robin, Nathan, Sara, Summer, and Melody. His role as a brother went far beyond simply being a sibling. John helped raise his two younger sisters, Melody and Summer, creating a bond with them that was part brother and part protector. He looked out for his little sisters and played an important role in their lives as they grew up. Family was at the heart of John’s life. He was especially close to his mother, Elaine, and was proudly a mama’s boy. His love for his mom was something those closest to him knew well. John also adored his many cousins and was a beloved uncle to his many nieces and nephews. Whether you called him Dad, brother, uncle, cousin, or friend, John had a way of making family feel important. John was a member of the Tohono O’odham Nation, an important part of his heritage and his family’s story. For more than 20 years, John worked in security, where he was known for his loyalty, dependability, and incredible work ethic. John believed in working hard and showing up for the people who depended on him. Outside of work, some of John’s happiest moments came from the simple things. He loved fishing and cooking, and family will especially remember his Indian tacos. Food was another way John could bring people together, and the meals he made will now be among the many little things his family will miss. John is survived by his beloved children, Leo and Melina; his siblings, Robin, Nathan, Summer, and Melody; and his many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly. John was preceded in death by his parents, Elaine and Juan; his sister, Sara; and his beloved Aunt Betty, who passed away only a short time before him. There is comfort in imagining John reunited with the people he loved and missed—his mom and dad, his sister Sara, and Aunt Betty. For someone whose heart was always so deeply connected to family, it feels fitting to picture family waiting to welcome him home. John was a father, a son, a brother, an uncle, a nephew, a cousin, and a friend. He was hardworking and loyal. He was a protective big brother who helped raise his little sisters. He was a mama’s boy. He was a fisherman and a cook. And most importantly, he was a dad who loved his children and a man who loved his family deeply. John’s life ended far sooner than anyone who loved him was prepared for. His absence leaves a space in his family that can never truly be filled. But his story doesn’t end with his passing. It continues through Leo and Melina, through his brothers and sisters, through every niece and nephew, every cousin, every fishing story, every family memory, and maybe even every Indian taco made in his honor. John was loved so very much. Rest peacefully, John. May you be surrounded by the family you missed so dearly. We love you, we miss you, and we will carry you with us always.

Joshua John Killinger

March 25, 1979 - August 24, 2026