John E. Heaton, 80, of Richland, Washington, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, surrounded by his devoted wife and loving daughter, following complications from a perforated stomach ulcer.
Born in Nampa, Idaho, to Ellsworth and Grace Heaton, John spent his teenage years in Montana, where he graduated from Mt Ellis in Bozeman. In 1965, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the U.S. Army as part of Operation Whitecoat. Stationed at Fort Detrick, Maryland until 1968, John’s time in service instilled a deep sense of patriotism and duty that remained a guiding force throughout his life.
From an early age, John was captivated by flight. After his military service he pursued this passion, ultimately achieving his dream of becoming a crop duster in the Columbia Basin. Known for his integrity, ingenuity, and steadfast character he became a respected figure in the agricultural community—both as a skilled aviator and a trusted friend.
It was through his love of aviation and the close-knit community it fostered that John met the love of his life, Althea (Hardwick), who would become his wife of 55 years. Their meeting was the kind of story that blends providence and serendipity—two strong-willed, kindred spirits whose paths seemed destined to cross. They were married on August 25, 1970, beginning a lifelong partnership grounded in faith, mutual respect, and shared adventure.
John’s entrepreneurial spirit first took flight when he co-founded Air Tech Inc. As technology began to transform the world, he discovered a new passion: business. With the unwavering support of Althea and an insatiable curiosity, John taught himself everything he could from the Columbia Basin College library. Merging his agricultural background with his newfound expertise, he founded Farm and Business Computers in Basin City, helping bridge the gap between rural industry and the digital revolution.
His innovation soon caught the attention of NorthWest Farm Management, who acquired his business and brought him on to oversee payroll services for their growing portfolio of farms. Never one to remain idle for long, John went on to co-found Pay Plus Benefits, a venture that became a reflection of his vision and values. Under his leadership, Pay Plus Benefits evolved from a local Professional Employer Organization into a nationally recognized provider of business solutions, earning numerous awards and cultivating a team proud to work under his guidance. In recognition of his achievements, John was also awarded an honorary Bachelor of Applied Science degree from Columbia Basin College.
John’s adventurous spirit knew no bounds. He was an avid skier, holding four different season passes each year, and a passionate SCUBA diver, exploring exotic locations and diving with great white sharks. Among his proudest photographs were those of himself exploring sunken World War II aircrafts. His love of travel carried him and Althea across the globe, from remote tropical islands, African safaris, and ancient cities to the frozen reaches of Antarctica. Wherever he went, John sought not just to see the world but to experience it deeply.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, John was a man of imagination, generosity, and faith. He was deeply devoted to his family and leaves behind a legacy of love and leadership. He is survived by his wife Althea; sister Marilyn Burton; son, Wayne Heaton; daughter in law, Heidi Schuette; daughter, Tabitha (Kurt) Harder; grandchildren Alexia (Tyler) Morgan, Corbin (Abigail) Harder, Howard (Margo) Heaton, Logan (Jacob) Hodnefield, Madison (Caleb) Hudson, Hope (Nathan) Yeagley, and thirteen great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ellsworth and Grace Heaton.
A celebration of life service will be held on November 2, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 1807 McMurry Ave, Richland.
John will be remembered for his creative spirit, unwavering integrity, and compassion for others. A regular donor of blood and plasma to the American Red Cross, he was also a devoted supporter of programs close to his heart, including Junior Achievement, the Mid-Columbia Symphony, and Grace Clinic. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to any of these charities.
Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we find comfort in the blessed hope of Christ’s return. John now rests from his labors—awaiting that joyful morning when, as Scripture promises, “the dead in Christ shall rise first.” Until that day, his faith, kindness, and love remain with us always.