John Putnam

Mr. John B. Putnam of Wasilla, Alaska passed away on December 15, 2023 at the Maple Springs Living Facility in Palmer. He was 72 years old.

Johnny, as he was known by was born to Erna and Minor Putnam in Lapeer, Michigan. After his high school days were done, he was drafted into the US Army and completed a one-year tour in Vietnam. He was honorably discharged in April of 1970 and returned to Michigan. While overseas he dreamed of moving to Alaska and finally managed to do so in the late 1980’s. He worked odd jobs and as a handyman throughout the Mat Su Borough. He found his way to the Wasilla Veterans Center in 2005 and became a proud member of the Vietnam Vet Combat Group. He contracted Agent Orange related cancer which took his voice but was able to communicate through using an electronic voice assist device.

Mr. Putnam became a great volunteer at the Center assisting any and all Veterans who needed help in any way. After 18 years his cancer returned and took his life.

He wanted to thank the staff at the MSU, Elmendorf, Social Work Services at the VA, Anchorage, his combat group brothers and staff at the Wasilla Vet Center and finally the staff at the Maple Springs Living Facility. He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A memorial service and burial of his ashes will occur in the late spring at Fort Richardson National Cemetery.