John Earl Gaines Sr. John passed away at the age of 71 on September 5, 2017. He was born on May 16, 1946 to the late Sylvester Gaines and Estella Newman. John attended East Waterloo High School in Waterloo, IA, and upon graduation went on to serve in the United States Army. He was stationed at Ft. Lewis, WA, where he received an Honorable Discharge in 1966, and made his home in Tacoma, WA. John was employed with Nalley's Fine Foods until he medically retired. He was deeply loved and will be truly missed by his family and friends. John loved his family, and he was most happy when they were together; it put a smile on his face and brought much joy to his heart. Our father has entrusted Mountain View Memorial Park to care for his funeral services. His viewing will be on Tuesday, September 19, 2017, from 12 pm - 8 pm, and his life's celebration will be held on Wednesday, September 20, 2017, at 1 pm at the Mountain View Celebration Chapel, 4100 Steilacoom WA, 98499.