John “Skip” Werner passed away peacefully on the evening of May 20, 2026, in Spokane, Washington, at the age of 86.

Skip was born on June 13, 1939, in Yakima, Washington, to Edna Loretta (Davis) Werner and John Victor Werner. He was the oldest of the two sons born to John and Edna. By 1941, the Werner family had relocated to Chewelah, Washington. Chewelah would become the place where Skip spent his formative years, attended high school, and met the love of his life, Kathryn “Kay” Grigware. His younger brother Mike preceded him in death last year.

After graduating from high school, Skip enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1958, beginning a proud and honorable military career that would span 20 years. On June 2, 1958, he married Kay Grigware, the woman who would remain his devoted partner throughout his life. Together they built a loving family grounded in commitment, faith, and enduring love.

Skip faithfully served his country in the United States Air Force until his retirement on January 31, 1978. Following his military career, Skip and Kay made their home in Newport, Washington, where Skip became a familiar and trusted member of the community through his work as a Farmers Insurance agent for more than 20 years. His integrity, reliability, and genuine care for others earned him the respect and friendship of many throughout the area.

In later years, Skip and Kay moved to Spokane Valley, where they continued to enjoy time with family and friends along with a balanced blend of travel and the quiet comforts of home.

Skip is survived by his wife of 68 years, Kay Werner, and his children John Werner, Mark Werner, and Michele Thompson as well as 7 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

Skip will be remembered for his dedication to his family, church, his service to his country and community, sense of humor, love of the outdoors and the steady kindness that defined his life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and hard work that will continue to live on in all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 11:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints located at 4014 S Bowdish Rd., Spokane, WA 99206.