John Townsand

It is with heavy hearts that family and friends announce the sudden and unexpected passing of John Wayne (Big John) Townsand of Las Cruces, NM. Born March 10th in Ravenna Ohio to Eustebio and Mildred Perez, John spent his childhood in Akron Ohio where he graduated from Northern Lights High School, Class of 1969. Upon Graduation John enlisted in the United States Army where he proudly served as a Military Policeman and Sergeant First Class for two decades. Upon completion of his military service, John accepted an Analyst position with the U.S. Defense Finance and Accounting Service, a distinguished career that spanned over 30 years. Upon retirement, John was heavily involved in the fellowship and volunteer activities of the local Harley Owner's Group (H.O.G). John had a passion for dogs, motorcycles, and adventure games, and was an outstanding "Dungeon Master". John loved music. He had an excellent singing voice and enjoyed singing with Los Vaquero's. John's love of God, Country and the open road was only surpassed by his devotion and commitment to his family and friends. John's stature paled only in comparison to the size of his heart, he could always be counted on to deliver a kind word, a warm handshake, and a loving embrace to the people he loved and cared for. The generosity of his compassionate nature will continue to serve as the standard for those who knew him, and we will continually strive to continue this in his legacy. John is the proud father of John Jr. and his wife Stephanie, Michael and his wife Nataliya, and Brian and his wife Nicole. He lived for his Grandchildren, Emilee, Caleb, Miranda, Alynna, and Ekatarina. John is also survived by his loving sisters, Darlene Lillard of Lyons, Georgia, and Linda Baltz Jones of Canton, Ohio. Forever missed and never forgotten, it is with grateful hearts that we celebrate the blessing that is our Father, Brother, Grand-Daddy and Friend. Together we commend his soul to the Lord, his body to the wind, and his spirit to our hearts.