John Henry Volpone

John Henry Volpone, age 84, passed away on Sunday, April 6, 2025, surrounded by his family. John was born on May 30, 1940, in Everett, Washington, the first child of John and Amelia (Rubatino) Volpone.

John spent his childhood in Bremerton and Lake Stevens, Washington, where he and his sisters spent time with their grandparents. John enjoyed the water and became an adept water skier, although early in life it was apparent he was gifted at making all sorts of things, whether it was water skis, fireworks, or speakers. John graduated from East High School in Bremerton and proceeded to the University of Washington, where he earned an undergraduate and graduate degree in electrical engineering. During these years John was frequently called upon to help his extended family as he learned many practical skills from his father and always had the time and patience to help family. John also became a good snow skier and truly excelled at teasing his sisters, although in a gentle way.

After earning his graduate degree in electrical engineering from the University of Washington, John began his 45-year career with Boeing. As a propulsion engineer John travelled the world, including many trips over the years to England, most of which he enjoyed. John became a technical fellow and, as he neared retirement, greatly enjoyed training a new generation of Boeing engineers.

John married Berneda Fetter on April 25, 1970, in Everett at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, and began a long life together full of love. They had four children, one daughter and three sons, all of whom attended St. Anthony’s in Renton, Washington, where John and Berneda were active parishioners. While raising their family John and Berneda made a home in Renton, then after John’s retirement they relocated to the family home in Lake Stevens.

In retirement, and throughout his life, John enjoyed working in his vegetable garden, tending to his fruit trees, foraging for mushrooms, and spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He never hesitated to help fix something when asked, and he made it an enjoyable experience to learn how to build, repair, or maintain anything. As a result, he was frequently asked, but he always assisted with patience and humility. He had a sense of humor loved by all.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Berneda, daughter Sarah (Ryan) of Seattle, son John (Eryn) of Seattle, son Ed of Everett, son Steve (Andrea) of Issaquah, nine grandchildren, sister Marcia of Bainbridge Island, sister Teresa (Eric) of Chattanooga, Tennessee and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Hope Chapel (formerly Our Lady of Perpetual Help), 2617 Cedar Street in Everett, Washington. Before the mass, a rosary will be held at 10:30 a.m. A celebration of life will be held later this year.

Donations can be made to Our Lady of Hope Parish in Everett or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.