The memorial service for Juan (John) Valentin Villanueva, 50 year-old Garber resident will be held Thursday, February 12, 2015 at 4:00PM in the Henninger-Hinson Funeral Home Chapel. The Rev. Vernon Lee will
officiate.

John was born April 23, 1964 in Pleasanton, California to Jose and Mary (Ruiz) Villanueva. He passed away January 30, 2015 in Oklahoma City.

He grew up with two sisters, Sylvia and Delia, in the Decoto District of Union City, California. Their local community was filled with extended family and childhood friends. As a young teenager he enjoyed low-rider cars and listening to oldies and soul music. By his late teens, he had replaced his Monte Carlo with a Ford Ranger 4x4 and four-wheeling became his new hobby. John also liked camping, fishing, listening to rock music and spending time on the beach in Half Moon Bay, California.

At age 19, he became a member of the Teamster's Union, working for many years alongside his Dad at Ashland Building Materials. He was a driver for the company while also learning the carpentry trade. He married in 1986 and soon he and his wife Dawna welcomed their son Christopher. Throughout the years, John could not have been more proud of his son, always happy to share stories of Christopher's accomplishments. After several years together, John and Dawna parted ways and moved on with their lives, while still raising their son.

John moved to Covington, Oklahoma in 2004 with his close friend Midge, and Jamie and Hailey, two special girls that also meant the world to him. He was as caring and as tough as any father could be. He eventually made Garber, Oklahoma his permanent home and joined the team at Advance Foods in 2007. As a member of the maintenance division, he was again able put his carpentry skills to work. In his off time, he also liked taking on remodeling side-jobs, but mostly he enjoyed spending time at his property, caring for his pets, cooking, barbecuing and relaxing by his fire-pit.

Those who knew John well knew that he could be stubborn and opinionated, always up for a debate. But he was also a witty, thoughtful and compassionate man who would lend a hand if he could. He will truly be missed by his son, his immediate and extended family in California and Texas, as well as many lifelong friends in California and more recent friends and colleagues in Oklahoma.

Memorials may be made through Henninger-Hinson to the charity of one's choosing.

Condolences may be made to the family online at www.enidwecare.com