Arthur John Partridge
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CWO4 USN (RET) Arthur John Partridge 1939-2022 Better known as "Mr. Bird" in the military field. John Partridge was an unassuming superhero. Raised by a single mother who instilled a sense of order and fairness in her two sons, John (and Charlie) showed an early aptitude for fixing things. He joined the US Navy in 1957 at age 17 to avenge the evils in the world. John loved his naval career and honorably served at NAS Whidbey for the majority of his 23-year career which ranged from Jet Airplane Mechanic to Material Control Officer. AJ "Bird" Partridge proudly retired as a decorated CWO4. John's next chapter began by mastering small engine repair. He went on to tinker with cars for friends and neighbors and, soon "John's Auto Repair" was open for business. He could fix almost any vehicle just by listening to it. Customers loved him for his honest, dependable and dedicated service. Being a business owner allowed him the flexibility to travel in style across the USA with his wife in their well-appointed motorhome. His knowledge of life was incredible, and he wasn't afraid of anything. John was a great provider for his family, loving them unconditionally. He was known for his friendliness and never hesitated to let people know that he loved them. Some of his superhero qualities included being fearless, frugal, detail-oriented, determined, understanding, kind, fair and generous. He had nerves of steel when he taught many teenagers how to drive a manual transmission. Anyone wanting advice could come to John to tap his Secret Vault of Wisdom for guidance. From the ground up, John built his own home in 1966, which was always open to family, neighbors and any stray friends that needed a good role model or a safe place to stay. When necessary, he was "Doctor John" to his children's many small cuts, slivers, and bruises. Beating pancreatic cancer in 1995, John proved he was a force that could not easily be extinguished. Decades later, he died peacefully at home in Mount Vernon, Washington, on May 11, 2022, at the age of 82. Although he lost the long battle against the ravages of his nemesis, Alzheimer, the end went according to John's Grand Exit Plan. His ashes will be ceremoniously scattered by the US Navy from an aircraft carrier in the Pacific Ocean, honoring his deep commitment to our country. John had a zest for life and cherished his wife Patricia of 54 years. They raised a blended family of six confident, outgoing children: Michael Partridge (Jill), Tony Cienfuegos, Vanessa Bogensberger (John), Shelley Van Pelt (Rick), Amber Irwin (Dale), Randy Cienfuegos (Brenda). Their unique genetic material has been passed down to 20 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren so far. We will host an open house celebration of John's life, love and legacy at Hillcrest Lodge, 1717 S. 13th St., Mount Vernon, on Thursday, June 2 from 3:00 - 7:00pm, light snacks provided. Please join us to honor this great man. Please visit www.hawthornefh.com to share your thoughts and memories and sign the online guest register. Arrangements are under the care of Hawthorne Funeral Home, Mount Vernon, WA.