John Tuman Westgate

Born in Homestead, FL to Helen Tuman and Philip Westgate. John grew up in Sanford, FL with sisters Inez, Peggy, and Stefany. He described a boyhood of family events, scouting, and beach trips to New Smyrna. John served in the US Navy from 1966 - 1970. After service, he attended the University of Florida where he studied engineering and met Harriet Ordower. After a cross-country road trip together, he and Harriet’s friendship blossomed into a wedding at his parents’ home. John and Harriet bought their first house in Brooksville, FL where John started his engineering career. They welcomed 2 sons, Aaron, and Daniel. When the boys were 3 and 1, they moved to Ft Collins, CO to have a “great adventure” while John got his Masters degree at Colorado State University. After finishing his degree, John and Harriet moved back to Florida to raise their kids near family and settled on Tampa as their choice. They bought their current house in 1980 and it is where they have lived ever since. John loved the outdoors. He got his sons involved in Boy Scouts, took them canoeing, hiking, and camping around the state. He enjoyed exploring the rest of the country on their annual vacations. He also enjoyed his family reunions at New Smyrna beach every summer with his mother and sisters and their families. John spent his weekends working on his house and on his yard, fixing appliances, growing citrus trees, and keeping bird feeders full. He enjoyed his work as a drainage engineer. His road trips frequently included stops at water control structures. He was a great popsicle-maker and “Papa” to 4 grandkids - Logan, Emma, Stella, Aurora. He was a kind and welcoming father-in-law to Nicole and Kelly. He was a great neighbor and friend to all that knew him. We love and miss you John.

Memorials may be given to National Hospice Foundation or the charity of your choice.

The family of John wishes to extend our sincere thanks to Suncoast Hospice.