John Eccles, 79

John Eccles, a resident of Athol, Idaho, passed away at the age of 79 on Jan. 8, 2016, at Kootenai Health.

John leaves behind his sons, George, Eli, Christopher, David and Kevin; daughters Diane and Ayn; sibling Sandy Escoto; 15 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Born on July 17, 1936, in Oxnard, Calif., he was preceded in death by his mother, Nellie Eggers; father William Eccles and brother Richard Eccles.

In his early years, he grew up surfing the beaches of Ventura County. His free time was spent relaxing and camping on the beach with his sons while enjoying the waves and peacefulness of the ocean.

John was a photographer with the United States Air Force, where he served for four years. He was later employed for 21 years with the city of Oxnard Water Department. After retirement he moved to Athol where he spent his days riding quads and snowmobiles, taking drives with his brother, garage sale shopping and being an active member with the Jehovah’s Witnesses.

A service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016, at the Jehovah’s Witnesses Kingdom Hall, 14438 N. Hwy 41, Rathdrum, Idaho. For further inquiries, please call (208) 683-0782.