ELEANDO, Johnsen J.

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ 07/08/2005 Johnsen J. Eleando, 47, of Whiteriver, died Saturday, July 2, 2005 at Navapache Regional Medical Center. Mr. Eleando was born March 13, 1958, in Tucson to Augustine and Mary Antone Eleando. He was reared and attended school on the Sells Indian Reservation graduating from high school in 1976. He served a tour in the United States Marine Corps one year of which was in Japan. Following his discharge he attended Central Arizona and Pima Community colleges majoring in forestry and welding. He was married to the former Mona Paxson Feb. 4, 1983 at Whiteriver. He had been employed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs for the past eighteen years as a Forestry Technician. He served as a coaching assistant for the Cradle Board Scouts Basketball team, for the little leagues and was on the Parents Advisory Committee at his son's school. He enjoyed rodeo and had been a bull rider most of his life. He was a loving husband and father and is a hero to his children. He will forever remain in their hearts. Survivors include his wife, Mona, of the home; two daughters, Gracie Eleando of Chandler and Rosie Eleando of the home; son, Ethan Jay Eleando of the home. Three sisters, Judy and Annette Eleando of Sells and Janet Joaquin of Cover Wells; two brothers, Leon Eleando of Tucson and Felix Eleando of Sells; two grandchildren, Jerry Dude and Theresa Hastings of the home; three godchildren; Brent Quintero, Aitana Pasxon and Ty Dan Goseyun. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Clement and Virgil Eleando. A wake was held Thursday, July 7, at the residence of Theresa Paxson in Seven Mile. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Friday, July 8, at the Seven Mile Miracle Church with Pastor Laura Mae James officiating. Burial will be at Seven Mile Cemetery. Arrangements under the direction of Black's Mortuary, Show Low.