Honoring John John: Funeral and Memorial Fund

Funds will go directly to funeral cost and memorial.

John Tobias Van Damme, known affectionately as "John John," passed away on August 19, 2024 in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the age of 31. Born on March 3, 1993 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, he carried the spirit of his birthplace throughout his life. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

John grew up in Rio Rancho, New Mexico where he enjoyed track, motocross racing, and snowboarding. John's smile was contagious and he was kind to every person he met. John's heart was so big, and he always stood up for the little guy.

John was deeply loved by his mom, dad, and twin sister. He often referred to his immediate family as his Wolfpack. He always had each of our backs and supported us when we needed it. Most of the family knew him as John John and John John always took care of his family. He was always coming up with a big plan no matter what it was. Whether it was his sister's wedding or his dad's wedding he would always be ensuring it went perfectly to plan. No. matter. what.

John went into the United States Navy to serve our country and he did so proudly. He was stationed in Guam and worked as an avionic structural mechanic. He earned his air warfare pin which is a qualification that not a lot of people earn. His last evaluation was marked with the highest grade, a EP, meaning early promotion recommendation.

John returned from the Navy and moved to Albuquerque where he would live the rest of his life. However, his service to others was not over. John decided to become a paramedic and anyone that knew John knew that if John wanted to do something it happened. John saved many lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico and throughout the state. He offered a hand out to those in need and held people accountable for their actions. John had many friends, one of his best friends was also one of his work partners John Montoya. They made an amazing team and will be deeply missed by his partner. He adopted a dog named Nayla. She was "his girl" and treated her like a queen. She will miss him and all the love he gave her. John never married but knew love and affection. It was something he gave unconditionally. John enjoyed many hobbies, mostly of high adrenaline categories such as scuba diving, sky diving, motor cross, street biking, paddle boarding, kite surfing snowboarding and hiking. He lived his like to the fullest.

John had nothing but love to give to this world and everything he did was always in a big way. We always said John lived his life full throttle.

John was a fighter and he fought till the end to be here with his friends and his family. He had a reason to stay. He made the call to emergency services but they did not get to him in time. Everyone should know he wanted to live. John should be remembered for his big smile, contagious laughter, and gentle soul.

Let his name never be forgotten and live a life worthy of his honor.

We love you John you are and will always be loved.