John Boleck

With heavy hearts, we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of our beloved husband, father, brother, and uncle, John “Johnny” Patrick Boleck, on May 13, 2026, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, at the age of 59. Born on March 26, 1967, in Inglewood, California, Johnny lived a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion to his family and friends. He will be remembered for his kindness, humor, and the unwavering love he gave to those around him.

In 1974, Johnny moved with his family to Spokane Valley, Washington, where he spent most of his life in and around the area. He also lived for a short time in Everett, Washington. After marrying the love of his life, Missy, in 2004, Johnny lived briefly in Plummer, Idaho, before he and Missy, along with their daughter Sophia, settled in Rockford, Washington, where they made their family home together.

Johnny had a strong work ethic, and his career reflected his versatility and determination. In his twenties, he worked as a drywaller alongside his brother-in-law for many years. In the early 2000s, he became a familiar face behind the bar at Frednecks and other local establishments. Around that same time, he partnered with his best friend, Bruce Bucknell, installing pools and pool tables. Later, Johnny worked as a mechanic for Inland Ag, a position he held for many years. Over the course of his life, he also worked as a plumber and, most recently, repaired small engines and lawn mowers alongside his friend Marty Primmer. Johnny was known for his incredible mechanical ability and seemed capable of fixing anything with a motor.

Johnny loved life’s simple pleasures and the people he shared them with. He enjoyed watching his favorite shows — Survivor, The Price Is Right (which he affectionately called “Come on Down”), Jeopardy!, and Wheel of Fortune. He loved working on cars, camping, spending time at the lake, and riding dirt bikes. In recent years, he developed a passion for racing lawn mowers at the Spokane County Fair in Rockford. In his younger years, he played co-ed softball throughout Spokane. He also enjoyed snowboarding, often joining KKZX party bus trips to ski resorts around the Spokane and Coeur d’Alene area.

Johnny loved pool, poker, and just about any game of chance. Wednesday poker nights at Frednecks and lively family games of Tripoly became cherished traditions over the years. Whether it was pull-tabs or casino machines, Johnny seemed to have luck on his side and often walked away a winner. His wife often teased that he was lucky at everything, but most of all lucky to have married her.

Music brought Johnny immense joy. He loved attending rock and metal concerts and festivals with his wife and friends. He cherished time spent with family and friends and was known for his quick wit, humor, and ability to make people laugh. Johnny could light up a room with a joke or clever remark, and his presence made people feel welcome, comfortable, and valued. Fiercely loyal to those he loved, he never hesitated to stand up for his family and friends. He also found peace in quiet moments — sitting in the yard watching cars pass by or hummingbirds gather at the feeder.

One of Johnny’s greatest accomplishments came in recent years when he overcame a lifelong struggle with alcohol addiction and found sobriety. This transformation brought him immense happiness and pride and was a testament to his strength, perseverance, and determination.

Johnny was one of the kindest souls anyone could meet. He leaves behind countless memories filled with laughter, love, and loyalty. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him.

Johnny is survived by his wife, Missy Boleck; his son, Josh Boleck; his daughter, Sophia Boleck; stepdaughters, Justeen Cordova and Cheyenne Joe (Taylor); stepson, Cameron Joe; sisters, Marie LaMarche and Jennifer Waddell (Scott); brother, Danny Benoun; nieces, Claire “Clarissa” Gunn, Casey LaMarche, and Brittany Akins (Cameron); as well as several grandchildren, grandnieces and nephews, cousins, and countless friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Claire “Marty” Boleck; his paternal and maternal grandparents; several aunts and uncles; and his beloved family dog, Cujo.

May Johnny’s memory bring comfort to those who loved him and inspire others to live with the same humor, resilience, loyalty, and love that defined his life.