John Charles Pappas

John Pappas
Richfield, Utah

    John was born February 20, 1946 in Clifton, Colorado to Dick and Johanna Kleminick Pappas.  He was the youngest of six children.  His father died when he was four years old, and his mother struggled to raise her large family. He passed away September 9, 2023 in Richfield, Utah.
    John grew up in Clifton, spending the summers barefoot, riding his horse, sleeping outside and swimming in the river.  He worked hard from a young age and had several occupations.  He excelled at whatever he did.  He enjoyed welding, was an excellent pipe fitter and crane operator.  He loved animals and bonded with them.
    When John and his wife, Claudia, moved to Sevier County, they established a business which they named “In The Green”.  He swept and maintained parking lots, plowed snow and did lawn care and general yard maintenance.
    He had a reputation of being generous, fair, and honest in his dealings.  His exterior demeanor was gruff and blunt, and you knew exactly where you stood with him.  Underneath the rough exterior was a large, gentle and kind heart.
    John is survived by his four children from his first two marriages: Jeanine, John and Jared Pappas of Oregon. Cynthia Pappas of Oklahoma.
    John had a hard life and overcame many obstacles.  His last battle with cancer, he fought tirelessly with determination and strength until finally it won.
    Graveside services were held on September 18, 2023 in the Richfield City Cemetery with Military Honors by the V.F.W. Sevier Post 5050 and the Utah Honor Guard.
    Funeral Directors, Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti.