John Edward Chandler

John Edward Chandler, affectionately known as Papa John, long-time Prineville resident went to heaven on December 18, 2021. Heaven’s gain is our loss.

John was a devout Christian, a devoted husband, a dedicated family man, a patriotic American, a proud veteran, a hard worker, and a great friend. His optimistic and outgoing personality was well-known in Prineville and with all who knew him. His signature chrome hard hat and love of God and country made him special and recognizable.

John was born in 1933 in the small community of Gooseneck, near Junction City, to Jim and Maudie Chandler. He was the seventh of 12 children – nine boys and three girls. He grew up in the Salem area and around Redmond. He graduated from Redmond Union High School in 1953 and joined the Army that summer. John really enjoyed being a paratrooper and it was one of his most cherished accomplishments.

On August 17, 1955, he married Carolyn (one of those Pucketts). She was the love of his life until the end.

With a two-year exception for a farming adventure in Nevada, John lived in Prineville from 1960 until 2021. He worked in various lumber mills until retiring and then spent more than 20 years working on houses – usually renting them for awhile and then selling them.

Loving God and loving and helping people were what motivated him. He enjoyed visiting which often included telling jokes and stories, singing church songs, and eating. John was a member of the Prineville Nazarene Church and was involved in many different ministries throughout the years.

Words cannot describe how much John was loved or how much he will be missed. Nobody will be able to fill his boots, but we will carry on in his memory and, hopefully, honor his legacy.

John leaves behind his bride and soulmate of 66 years – Carolyn (Puckett) Chandler. He is survived by his children: Lewie (Georgia) Chandler of Prineville, Tim Chandler (Kathleen) of Prineville, Meg (Wes) Tucker of Madras, and Robin (Brad) Olson of Powell Butte; his grandchildren: Tayva, Christina, Lewie, Alena, Carrie, Emily, and Daniel; and 13 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two brothers: Dale and Delbert; and one sister, June.

John was preceded in death by his parents; six brothers: Jim, Bill, Don, George, Dick, and Ken; two sisters: Bertie and Betty; daughter-in-law, Michelle; and grandson, Tommy.

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