John Lehman

Every game comes to an end as it did for John Christian Lehman on March 12th, 2020 at the age of 60. After a brave, hard fight that went into extra innings, cancer has officially thrown its third strike.

John had a deep love of the Bay Area and appreciation for the summers in the PNW.   He was born in Walnut Creek, CA, and grew up in Concord. He spent the majority of his adult life in Spokane, WA. John lived his life, on and off the field, with endless love, dignity, and happiness. His love for the game was only rivaled by his love for his family. He was a devoted husband, selfless father, and fun-loving grandpa. John was a man whose smile rarely left his face, especially behind his catcher’s mask. He was a man whose best jokes were his classic “dad jokes”- which were often received with exaggerated eye rolls from his children. He was a humble and kind man, small in stature but big in heart. John was a team player who could be counted on at all times- whether behind home plate or at home with his loved ones. He always did what was best for the team and his family- especially if it meant ice cream after a game or popsicles for dinner. He always played the game to have fun but had a quiet pride in winning over 20 men’s league championships. He found so much joy in life- on the field, behind a camera lens, traveling with his wife or daughter, playing with his cats and dog, or in the stands watching his son pitch. He found happiness, even during the tough times, whether it be at the Oakland Athletic’s Fantasy Camp or on a trip to his hometown in the Bay Area. It would be impossible to put his positive, loving, selfless spirit into words but rest assured, the memories he has helped create will live on forever.

John is survived by his wife Kathleen, son Jesse (Erica), daughter Sarah, grandchildren (Aleri, Alex, and Owen), stepdaughter Ariel Burdette, mother-in-law Joan Mael, sister LaVerne Biel (Kent), brother David (Catherine), and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Mervin and Doris Lehman, sister Melody, brother Charles, and father-in-law Stan. The world has been thrown the ultimate curveball but John Lehman is a player that will never be forgotten.

The family would like to thank the staff at MultiCare Rockwood Cancer and Blood Specialty Center-Downtown and Hospice of Spokane for their wonderful care and support throughout John’s battle with cancer.

Family and friends will gather for a private service at a later date, TBD.

A baseball game and potluck will be held at a later date in honor of John. Friends and family are welcome to join on or off the field. Details will be announced when finalized.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to Hospice of Spokane in John’s name.