John E. Hill

Published 10:15 am Monday, June 24, 2024

John E. Hill

Nov 20, 1963 – May 27, 2024

Born to Jack and Naoma Hill, John lived a long life full of both challenges and adventures. He reached age 60 before passing on to his next adventure – a length of life that was, at the time of his birth, considered unimaginable for someone with Down Syndrome. He traveled a lot, becoming a fixture at the Oregon Jamboree, visiting Disneyland, Las Vegas, and The Grand Ole Opry, which was his favorite! John won countless medals in the Special Olympics – missing out on the gold in swimming because he always insisted on waiting for everyone else to catch up. John was kindness and care embodied.

John brought joy to people anywhere he went. His passion for the things that he loved (Star Trek, Brady Bunch, Star Wars, Pure Country, rocking out to loud music while driving fast, playing his guitar, and his sister, Sandra) was contagious, and those of us who had the honor of spending time with John will carry memories of his laughter, love, and big “WOOOOOWWWW!” for the rest of our lives.

John is survived by his sister Sandra Gamble and his nephews, Dylan and Reno Gamble, as well as a long list of friends and care-givers from Opportunity Foundation. He will be sorely missed by all of us.

Please join us to celebrate this precious, unique, wonderful man on Saturday the 29th, at 1:00pm in building #3, at Opportunity Foundation of Central Oregon (835 E. Hwy 126, Redmond, OR). This will be a time of memories, music, cheeseburgers, fries, and love. Please feel free to wear anything related to any of John’s passions, and come ready to remember John in the way that he would most enjoy – rocking out with the people he loved.