"I?ve known John since 1981. Not a day passes that I don?t thank God for bringing him into my life. I?ve truly been blessed knowing John and having him as my bestie and sole mate. The fun and laughs we had are endless. John was such a good listener, funny, honest, and kind hearted gentleman. People loved him and respected him for the life he chose to live. Without question John will live on in the hearts of everyone that met him. He was like no other. I will miss talking to him and seeing him everyday! He was such an important part of my life. I love John and I will move on with all my memories. Thanks John for being you and allowing me to be me. "
In loving memory of
John Francis Horan
October 24, 1959 - December 7, 2021
John Francis Horan, 62, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away on 12/7/2021 surrounded by family and friends.
John was born in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, on October 24, 1959, the son of Charlotte Lorraine Hepler Horan and John Joseph Horan. He graduated from Edinboro University in 1985 with a degree in Communications. John moved to Phoenix, Arizona in 1986. He worked for several years at Rio Salado Community College teaching computer programs and engaged in a variety of volunteer activities.
John is survived by family including his sister, Patricia (Greg) Staniszewski, nieces Krista (Mike) Horwath, Allison (Lance) Sommers, and nephews Spencer and Tanner Horwath and Brice Sommers, and niece Brittany Sommers. He is also survived by his long-time companion and best friend Diane "Kelly" Crerand.
John was proud of his Irish heritage and often participated in the sounds of noisy, crazy St. Patrick's Day pub activities. He enjoyed cruising because it was comfortable travel for him. John's favorite music was Classic Rock (music of the 60's, 70's, and 80's). As a football fan, he followed both the Arizona Cardinals and Pittsburgh Steelers. As a history buff, John shared his knowledge in story form for others to enjoy. He loved being near the water, watching movies, playing games, going to concerts, the holidays, family, friends, Sunday dinners, and making others feel important and valued.
Throughout his adult life, John impacted so many people including friends, family, and medical professionals with his consistently positive attitude and immense gratitude for any assistance provided. He was known for his low-keyed gentlemanly style. No matter what the challenge, John met it. John would probably be surprised to know how much he was admired just because of who he was and how he chose to live his life. John will always be remembered for his love, heart, understanding, generosity, and wit.
There are family and friends to whom John would want to provide a very special thanks. They include his sister and nieces "who have always been there" for him; Kelly Crerand with whom he has lived with for over 36 years of 40 years they have known each other; Thad LaMastres for having an open heart/mind in understanding and accepting his life situation; Clint Boles, his caregiver, for his kindness, protection, friendship and support over the past 14 years; the Crerand family that adopted him many years ago; Al Reilly, his Sunday TV buddy, as well as his long-time friends Dick Harrison, Jack Riddle, and Ken Patterson who have been a huge support over the years. For John, it has been a rich life, as he measured his satisfaction by those with whom he shared his life and not his physical limitations. His journey has ended yet he will be never forgotten.
John requested a private farewell. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Arizona Spinal Cord Injury Association or the American Cancer Society.
Tributes
"Many years ago, John and I worked together at Rio Salado College, Paradise Valley Mall location for a number of years. What a great guy and so smart! We had lots of opportunities to talk about computers and just regular stuff. I last talk to John a couple of years ago and still the same great guy. John, you will be dearly missed my friend. "
"John was a close buddy of mine for many years, both before and after his accident. John was the most positive and the bravest man I?ve ever known, and although we lived many miles apart, our friendship was always solid. John and I enjoyed some pretty crazy car and van trips in our younger days, and met some interesting people along the way. John never met a stranger. He and his family treated me like a brother and a son. John?s warm spirit will continue to live on in those of us who knew and loved him. Fly free brother."
"If not for distance, we would have spent a great many more memorable times together. He was just that type of person. Someone you enjoyed hanging out with and just chatting. Rest in peace, my friend!"
"John was a wonderful man. He made me smile and went along with my shenanigans on the Cruise we all went on. It was my honor to have known him and the love of his family and friends that surrounded him. Until we meet again, Godspeed."