John H. Gorham, 86, passed away Wednesday, June 29, 2016. John was a long time resident of Jacksonville and though you may not have known his name, you most likely saw him with a little dog in his bike basket, as he happily rode around town.
John wore (and collected) many hats in his lifetime, but was a gardener extraordinaire… the hat he wore the longest! His family had gardens and greenhouses in his South Dakota birthplace, where he delivered flowers in his little wagon. He maintained private gardens in Southern California, gardens and grounds at Universities in Anchorage, Alaska, estates in Portland and the coast and landscaped the desert in Saudi Arabia, which allowed for vacations all over the world. Most recently, he worked with his daughter, Jan, in Jackson Perkins’ test garden and at Lithia Springs Resort, where he retired at 84.
He had a passion for sailing, hiking, cross-country skiing, woodworking, biking and family. He was a United States Navy veteran and was the youngest of six siblings and the last to depart. He leaves behind his wife, Kathy, and best friend of 62 years, (also originally from South Dakota) daughter Jan Cunningham (Patti Perez), sons Greg (Zena,) Daniel and Timothy Gorham, granddaughter Cari Cunningham, (Trannon Mosher) cherished great granddaughter, Loie Elizabeth, and his little dog Genesse and kitty, Misty, who loved him dearly, plus nephews and nieces from far and wide.
He will be greatly missed by many and we hope his adventures continue, sailing on distant seas, climbing majestic mountains and smiling upon us while perched on his bike with puppy in-basket! Thanks to Royal Mobile Estates for hosting his celebration of life in July and to family who will let the wind carry him, from a mountain top in August.
May your sail be full and your compass true. We love you so much Johnny, Dad, Gramps, Great Grandpa Bunny Bunny.