John Raymond Huovinen

After a valiant 6-month battle with pancreatic cancer, it is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of a beloved soul—John Raymond Huovinen (March 22, 1962 - January 12, 2024). Even in the face of this formidable adversary, John remained a beacon of positivity, strength, fun, and joy. He was not only a loving father & husband, but also a great friend to many. John touched countless lives with his generosity and willingness to help whenever someone (whether friend or stranger) was in need. We are creating this GoFundMe to help us alleviate the strain caused by these unexpected and unavoidable expenses & obligations.

While many of you were aware of his cancer diagnosis, many others have been shocked to hear of this. John was simply the kind of person who didn’t want others to worry, so his response to “How have you been doing?” was always, “I’m doing alright—how about you?” Though the last 6 months were ferocious, it is truly such a minute part of his life, which is how John would’ve preferred us to remember it—a footnote.

Throughout his life, John was a man on a mission for fun: pranks involving lemons, many jokes (whether good or groan-worthy), and choosing to make you laugh even when tears may have been the default. He loved being outdoors and spoke endlessly of the redwoods and granite that we are so fortunate to be surrounded by in Northern California. John was also marked by his curiosity: exploring, finding limits, or recounting the most random, niche facts to anyone within a 10’ radius. He was a Concord & California boy at heart and cared deeply about his community; this includes orating about city planning, calling the city to increase safety measures, and even randomly pruning low-hanging branches while walking his four-legged children.

As we navigate the difficult aftermath of his departure, we are confronted with critical financial & legal burdens, such as resolving his outstanding medical debt, covering his cremation costs, helping with his Celebration of Life, and contributing to upcoming legal obligations. His primary concerns, even in his last moments, were ensuring his family would have the proper support.

John will be remembered and deeply missed. Whether you knew him as Big John, Huov/Huovie, Asst. Scout Master, Johnny, son, brother, uncle, or simply John—we humbly ask for your support during this difficult time. Please consider contributing and/or sharing this page with your network to help us reach our fundraising goal.

With heartfelt condolences & gratitude,

The Huovinen Family