John Marvin Core passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. John was born to Susie and Marvin Core on Nov. 20, 1935, in Morton, Washington, and was an honest, hardworking, and devoted son, brother, husband, father, and “Papa John” to all his grandkids. At a young age, he went to work to support his family.
He met the love of his life, Barbara Moses, in June of 1957, marrying just three months later. John worked for 10 years in Randle, Washington, at Randle Veneer before moving his family to Shelton in 1964 to work for the Simpson Timber Company. He later retired from Simpson in 2002 after working for the company for 38 years.
John was known for his extraordinary work ethic, grand deep voice, and great love of the outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, camping, and gardening—but most of all, John loved spending time with his wife, kids, and grandkids.
John was a giver. He was always willing to give, whether it was his time, resources, or even his blood—literally. John donated gallons of blood over the years, earning a place on the Tree of Life for his lifetime of blood bank donations.
John also served in the National Guard and the Army Reserves.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Susie Core; brothers Glen Core, Jay Core, Tom Core; and sister Betty Battle.
John is survived by his wife of 67 years, Barbara; their three children: Brian and his wife Cheri, Mark and his wife Tracie, and Lisa Nelson and her husband Martin; 15 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; sister Sue Marine; and brother Richard Core.
The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Assured Hospice and Three Rivers Care, both of Centralia.
A celebration of life will be held on June 7, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Sticklin Funeral Chapel, 1437 S. Gold St., Centralia, Washington.
