John R. Leavell

December 14, 1956 – April 21, 2020

John R. Leavell of Seattle, WA passed away April 21, 2020 at the age of 63.

Born in Iowa to John K. and Kathryn Leavell, John was raised primarily in Urbandale, where he made lasting friends, with whom he remained in contact for the rest of his life.

After graduating from the University of Iowa with a B.S. in Geography, John landed in Seattle, a city he loved. He worked in several fields while living here. Most recently he was employed by Metsker Maps of Seattle where he was surrounded by one of his great loves – maps.

In addition to geography and maps John had many interests – the Mariners (even when they broke his heart), music, the desert, and art. The combination of these last two is what led him to Burning Man – a place where John would truly come into his own. The experiences he had and the people he met touched him very deeply and were a continuing source of inspiration. The ethos of Burning Man and the dust of the playa were at the very core of John’s soul.

John is survived by his mother, Kathryn; brothers Jim (Gwen) and Rob (Marlene); and sister Mary Rickard (Graham). He was also loved by his nephews Alex and Jim and nieces Hannah and Zoe. In addition to family he was loved by many – chief among them Skip Ross, Marcia and North Wiley, and Heather Deal.

John was an intellectual, forever curious. He would not want us to grieve for long, but would want us to go and find joy and make art.

John was cremated with his utili-kilt, Hushville shirt, Mariners’ hat and baseball glove and a map of the stars to help him find his way. A celebration of his life will occur in Seattle in the fall.

You were loved. We will see you on the other side.