John Howard Hietpas

John Howard Hietpas or “Bussy” was born on October 25, 1944 and passed away on July 3, 2025 at the age of 80 with his family by his side.

He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Pam, his children Heather Liufau ( Joe) John Howard Hietpas Jr, and Dawn Renée Merecki (Sean ) & his grandchildren: Sefo, Saia and Malia Liufau, Jonah, Abby and Justin Hietpas and Nathan Merecki. As well as his sisters’ Mary Byrd and Joan Rue.

John dearly loved going to Bellarmine games and driving the bus for the school teams. He loved spending time in Arizona as a snowbird and hanging out with his friends. He enjoyed golfing, spending time with family, listening to music and sitting in the sun. In his younger days, he was one heck of a dancer.

After a brief stint in the Air Force John worked for BNSF railroad until his retirement.

There will be a Funeral Mass at 9:00am with a Rosary at 8:30 am on July 19th at Visitation Church which is located at 3314 S. 58th St., Tacoma WA.