Obituary of John Herman Seematter

John "Johnnie" Seematter, 93, of Needles, CA passed away Friday, April 15, 2016, at the Lake Havasu Regional Medical Center. He was admitted with pneumonia and was to be released two days later into our care. However, John had another destination in mind – Heaven. For years, he spoke of Heaven peacefully, expectantly and without fear. He spoke of looking forward to seeing family and friends again. He told us not to grieve his death, but to celebrate his life. Johnnie, raised in Marysville, Kansas was a loving, honest soul. He joined the Navy at age 18. From aboard the USS Norman DE 416, during WWII, he witnessed the US flag being raised on Iwo Jima. In 1952, he was hired on as a Teamster with Anheuser-Busch and once there, joined their bowling team becoming a champion bowler. Whenever he could, he headed to the mountains to hunt or to a river to fish taking along with him family and friends where he'd also camp and sing around the campfire. His love for the peacefulness of nature drew him to the Colorado River where he retired at age 55. He was consistently kind - always giving and helping to neighbors and family. He volunteered annually to teach the Boy Scouts Navy knots, and to assist search and rescue teams along the river. Being naturally humorous, he had an infectious smile. Survivors include his loving partner of 28 years, Theresa Puchalek; daughter, Georgian Brown; son, Dennis Seematter (Caroll); nephews, Kenny (Lori), Tom, Clyde (Kim) Adams; niece, Susie Wiley (Rick); step-daughters, Eleanor Spruill (Mike), Kathy Deffenbaugh (Danny); step-son, Robert Taylor; 11 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and extended family and friends. Predeceased by his sister, Irene Adams; son, Ronald Seematter; niece, Colleen Davis, nephew, Bill Adams. A celebration of his life will follow in September. Services were placed in the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home. Thoughts and condolences may be sent to the family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com.