In Loving Memory of John Michael Carawan, 40, who passed away peacefully on June 7, 2024, at Tennova Healthcare in Clarksville, Tennessee.
On October 18, 1983, John Michael embarked on his adventurous life journey in Charleston, South Carolina at the Charleston Naval Hospital. He would spend his life traveling across the SouthEast, sharing wisdom and loving kindness to all, eventually finishing in Tennessee. John spent his time between South Carolina, Florida and Virginia; choosing to work with people, continued his thriving Customer Service career with Lowe’s to become department manager. John had a love for all animals and devoted much of his time to feeding stray cats, dogs, and turtles.One of his favorite pastimes while in Virginia Beach, VA was hand feeding the geese in the backyard. When not naming random wild creatures-to the delight of his young nieces and nephews, his other time was spent contemplating God and his place in the world. He would complete this theological quest by converting to Catholicism in his early twenties, and sharing his faith with any who would ask. St Francis of Assisi, the patron Saint of animals and the environment, was John’s inspiration for his caring actions throughout the rest of his life.
John was preceded in death by his grandfather John Charles Crawford. His surviving Family includes: his father, Thurman Carawan; mother, Roine Cardinal; step-father, Arnold Cardinal; brother, Richard Carawan and wife Jo; sisters: Angela Boles, Kara Cardinal, Kelly Cardinal; grandparents, Joseph and Carol Lutes, Richard and Bertha Scott, and Joan Crawford; numerous aunts and uncles, his favorite being Daniel Crawford and wife Charlene; nieces and nephews; and many close friends and others around America who will continue to carry his legacy of love and compassion.
He will be remembered for his infectious laughter, and his insight to life. John Michael had a unique ability to uplift those around him and bring light into even the darkest of days. John Michael lived with love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those around them. Though his physical presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known and loved him. He was a beloved son, brother, and uncle, deeply cherished by family, friends, and colleagues. May John’s soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire and uplift us all
In lieu of a formal memorial service, his family and close friends had time with him during his last week and ask that you consider honoring his memory in donation to his final memorial fund: https://everloved.com/life-of/john-carawan/.
A celebration of John’s life will be held in Virginia Beach at a later date.
Arrangements are in the care of Tennessee Cremation Care.