John Claud Haws Jr., 76, Loving Husband, Father, and Grandfather, passed away at his home, surrounded by his loved ones on October 24, 2021. John was born April 17, 1945, in Cedar City, Utah to JC and Eva Haws. He was raised in Vernal, Utah.
John graduated from Uintah High School in 1963. John went on to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Central British Mission. After returning home, John pursued an education in Auto-Mechanics at Weber State College. This led to his becoming a head mechanic for Box Elder School District.
John married his sweetheart, Opal Joy Reeder, on June 21, 1968, in the Salt Lake City Temple. Newly married, John served his county in the Vietnam War from 1969-1972. While stationed in Long Bin he advanced to the rank of Specialist 5 of the military, received a Bronze Star for Outstanding Military Service, and an Army Commendation Medal.
His greatest accomplishment was raising his children in the gospel and teaching them the value of hard work. John spent many days in the shop working on anything that had moving parts, a trait he passed on to his sons. He taught them to work with their hands. John also had a very special place in his heart for his only daughter, JoLynn. John’s enduring, rich love led to 53 happy years with his eternal companion Joy. The bond of family was his greatest treasure.
Throughout John’s life he created many memories in Escalante, Utah. John gave aid to his mother and father in fixing up their family home in Escalante. He and Joy would return with their own family each year to work and play. John enjoyed dairy farming and cruising main with his sweet wife Joy.
John was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and served his community in various callings throughout his life. His serving heart led him to create lifelong friendships.
John enjoyed hotrods, helping others, and supporting his family in all their doings.
John is survived by his loving wife, Opal Joy Haws; children, Jayson Claud (Melissa) Haws, JoLynn Haws (Nathan) Packer, Jerry Thomas (Katie) Haws, and Jesse Alton Haws; 12 grandkids; sisters, Pollyanna Southam and Janell Riley.
He was preceded in death by his parents, JC and Eva Haws, and his sister Uvene Manwaring.
Loved by so many, John will be dearly missed. John’s example, leadership, and love will continue with his family throughout their lives.
A Graveside Service will be held on Friday October 29, 2021, at Noon at the Bear River City Cemetery (5550 North 4600 West Brigham City, Utah). In case of inclement weather, it will be held at the Bear River City Chapel (5870 North 4700 West Bear River City, Utah).
A viewing will be held on Thursday October 28, 2021, from 6-8pm at Rogers and Taylor Funeral Home (111 North 100 East Tremonton, Utah).
Online condolences may be found at www.ruddfuneralhome.com under his obituary.