John moved with his family to North Idaho as a young child and graduated from Coeur d'Alene High School in 1989.  Throughout his youth, he was active in many sports and activities to include playing football for the Coeur d'Alene Vikings, an active member of Explorer Post 222 and an avid skier.  

 

Following graduation, John enlisted in the U.S. Army in June, 1989.  He completed basic training at Fort Jackson, SC.  John was a SPC and was trained as an aircraft/armament/missile system repairer with the 4th Squadron 2nd Armored Calvary Regiment.  John was stationed in Germany and served in the 1st Persian Gulf War Operation Desert Storm.  

 

After his discharge from the military, John went on to attend college at Spokane Falls Community College and Eastern Washington University where he earned his Bachelor's Degree.  Following graduation, John moved to Portland, OR to pursue employment.  John married Karen Boykin and they continued to reside in Portland for a few years until they moved to Texas where he became a teacher.  He most recently taught at Shoemaker High School in Killeen, TX.  Additionally, John was a leader in the school's robotic's club.  His students remember him as an amazing teacher who was incredibly creative and inspired others every day.  

 

John was preceded in death by his Mom, Jewel Diane Whisner, and his sister, Robin Boykin.  

 

John is survived by his Father, Chuck Wall, sister, Paige Hirt, wife, Karen Wall, two amazing boys, Elliott and Robbie and nephews Chris Sears, Tyler Scheibe, Brayden Hirt, Benjamin Hirt, and Bryce Hirt.  He will be remembered as a loving son, brother, father, uncle teacher, hero and friend.

 

A memorial service will be held on May 15th at 11 am at Coeur d'Alene Memorial Gardens Cemetery.  

 

Internment will be on June 15th at 3 pm at Central Texas Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, TX.