John Robert Westphal, Lt. Col Ret
Passed: July 31, 2022
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John Robert Westphal, Lt. Col Ret
Passed: July 31, 2022
Obituary
Honored family patriarch, John “Westy” Westphal made his last take off on July 31st, 2022, after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease. He was born on February 14th, 1931, in Walla Walla, Washington to Raymond and Aileen (Tweed) Westphal. The family moved back to their farm in Salem, Oregon where he was raised. The family reorganized during World War II with John’s mother marrying Dr. H.A. Perlmutter and moving to Berkeley, CA. Graduation from Berkeley High School in 1948 was followed by three years at College of the Pacific in Stockton, CA. With the Korean War in progress and the Draft Board eminent, Westy decided to join the U.S. Air Force.
Westphal entered the USAF in 1951, graduated from Pilot Flying School in 1953, and was immediately posted to Korea as an F-84 Fighter Pilot. Perhaps this might account for the fact that the war ended three weeks after his arrival. While on his first tour of duty at Luke, he was an F-100 Instructor Pilot and managed to meet and marry the lovely Denise Byerly from Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico. Daughter Tamara arrived in time to accompany her folks to Itazuke, Japan. While in Japan, another daughter, Dana, joined the family in time to return for another tour at Luke. Westphal then served in Southeast Asia accumulating the usual gongs and whistles (John’s term for medals) awarded for combat exposure. He then proceeded to further his education at Armed Forces Staff College (Norfolk, VA), San Diego State University, and a Master’s from University of Oklahoma. An assignment at Fort Carson, Colorado as Air Force Liaison with the Army, added to the adventure. Luke AFB was next for him as Commander of the 311th Fighter Squadron, flying the F-4 Phantom jet. Next it was overseas for the entire family to Okinawa, Japan and then finally back to Luke and retirement after 30 years of military service.
Westphal decided to try the civilian job market and landed a position with the Maricopa County Management Analysis Section and then as a Right-of-Way Agent for the Highway Department. From there he had a stint with the Arizona Department of Revenue followed by a Governor-appointed position on the State Board of Equalization from 1993-2003.
In addition to fishing with his buddies, Westy loved playing golf at the WigWam Golf and Country Club where he also served as Treasurer.
He had a unique and special relationship with each of his children and grandchildren and was the consummate role model. His grace and humor will be missed by his survivors: beloved wife of 65 years Denise, and his two loving children Tamara (Alan) Bowman, and Dana (John) Marsden. Four Grandchildren: Sarah, AJ, Oliver and Benjamin and three great grandchildren and all of his many nieces and nephews.
Private services will be held at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona. Visit thompsonfuneralchapel.com for online condolences. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the USO at P.O. Box 96860 Washington DC 20077-7677.
14 responses to John Robert Westphal, Lt. Col Ret
Spencer Thompson says:
August 26, 2022
My Great-Uncle John was an absolute pillar in our family. Well known for his incredible storytelling abilities and joyous character, he always knew how to make everyone’s day better. He will always be a hero in my eyes due to his service to our country and his bravery in combat. His service is what has inspired me to become a law enforcement officer and his character has taught me to treat others with dignity and respect. Although it is sad that he has passed away, I take comfort in knowing that he is up in Heaven with my Grandpops taking flight together once again and for eternity.
Kay MacTaggart says:
October 25, 2022
My cousin, Johnny, was one of the nicest people you could ever meet. He always knew exactly what to say to make you at ease. When I was a young teen-ager, he and Denise would take me with them to musicals and plays in town. They were newly married and still didn’t mind me tagging along. I even went on a family vacation with them to San Diego. What fun! He will be dearly missed. Thanks Cousin John for all the great memories. Blessings and Peace to Denise and family.
Cynthia Paulsen says:
November 14, 2022
My sincerest condolences to all of John’s family as you gather to celebrate his life and share wonderful memories of your times together. My own favorite memory of you all was made in Neskowin, Oregon, during Sarah’s beach wedding. My husband, Bruce, and I shared in the joy of watching the newlyweds and relatives drink wine, laugh, tell stories, and dance on the beach house deck. I will always remember one special couple in each other’s arms. John and Denise, grandparents of the bride, completely in step with one another, gliding over the smooth wood, eyes sparkling, warm smiles, familiar together in their light steps. Bruce and I held hands and watched their magic until the music ended. John kissed his sweetheart and led her to a porch seat. Without a word his love was apparent, his broad shoulders straight with pride and dignity, truly a gentleman to his lady. You will be missed, Mr. Westphal, but never forgotten. God’s continued grace and blessings to your family. Well done, good and faithful servant…
Territorial Law Team says:
November 28, 2022
We are truly saddened to know the hardship your family is going through, John may not be with us anymore but his legacy lives on. Please accept our sincerest condolences for your loss.