John was diagnosed with congestive heart failure in the late 1990s and managed the condition for nearly two decades. In 2014, he was considered for a heart transplant, but liver complications prevented it, and he entered hospice care for nearly two years. During that time, he shared Bible scriptures and spent treasured moments with family and close friends. John passed away peacefully at home on October 15, 2016, while watching a baseball game in his bed.

As a general takeaway for heart health, UCLA Health notes that “walking briskly can help your health just as much as running” and that walking briskly increases your heart rate, improves circulation, and lowers blood pressure—making walking a simple yet powerful form of cardiovascular exercise (UCLA Health).

Walk with us to honor John, and to care for our own hearts so that we may cherish more time with the people we love.