John Svoboda

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of John Leslie Svoboda on February 11, 2025 at his home in Springfield, Oregon. His wife, Judy, was with him at the time.

John was born July 17, 1941 in Sioux City, Iowa the only child of Adolph J and Leola (Penwell) Svoboda. After early years in Iowa, John and his parents moved to Oregon...first briefly to Portland and then in 1949 to Roseburg. John's parents were part of the business community in that city for many years During this time, John's father became ill and passed away when John was 16 years old. Those who knew John feel that this is a point in life where he formed many of his attitudes of commitment to family and life values. He was a man dedicated to truth, honor and always helping those he came into contact with. He was an intellectual thinker and problem solver and lived his life as an example.

Upon graduation from Roseburg High School, John enrolled at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon, where one of the college activities he enjoyed was participating in the Model United Nations. After earning his Political Science degree in 1963, he next attended George Washington University in Washington D.C. to begin his law studies. After one year, he transferred to Willamette University, in Salem, Oregon where he earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) John enjoyed a long career practicing law in the Eugene/Springfield area before retiring in 2017.

John married Judy Green on December 1, 1973 in Hood River, Oregon. They were married 51 years and it was truly a match made forever. Both of them were people of deep commitment and their relationship was lived that way day to day. He modeled what a good husband and father should be to his sons, grandson and nephew.

John's focus in life was his family and what he could do with and for them. At various times in his life, he was a licensed pilot, a golfer, a skier, a tennis player, a snowmobiler, and a boater but most close to his heart was "the cabin" at Crescent Lake. The outdoors and the activities he could participate in with his family were his ultimate enjoyment and relaxation.

John is survived by his wife of 51 years, Judy, son Ryan (Katie Bidstrup) Svoboda of Lafayette, Ca., son Wade Svoboda of Portland, grandson Gage Svoboda of Lafayette, Ca., nephew John Morgan of Springfield, Or and sister-in-law Karen Morgan of Springfield. Additionally, he will be missed by so many longtime friends who have expressed their heart felt sadness and grief to the family.

The family wishes to thank The McKenzie Fire and Rescue and the Lane County Sheriff's office for their timely response and the caring way they helped us through this difficult situation.

For those wishing to make a charitable donation in John’s name, the family suggests a charity of your choice or The Springfield Education Foundation, P.O. Box 663, Springfield, Oregon 97477 or www.springfieldeducationfoundation.org