John Harold Colgren

October 9, 1948 – September 7, 2025

On September 7, 2025 John, who was surrounded by loved ones, went home to be in God’s loving arms.

John was born on October 9, 1948 in Norfolk, Virginia. He was raised by his parents, Mauritz H. and Louise Colgren, in Spokane, WA. He graduated from Joel E. Ferris High School in 1967. John attended Harvey Mudd College in California on a scholastic scholarship. He later transferred to University of Washington to pursue aeronautical engineering. John volunteered as a math tutor while at the U of W and discovered his love for math and teaching, resulting in a new trajectory for his career and life.

Following graduation from the U of W in 1974 with a degree in math, John spent 2 ½ years teaching in Australia. Upon his return to the United States, John worked construction until 1980 when he secured a position teaching math and industrial education in Stayton, Oregon for two years. In 1982, John accepted a teaching position in the math department at Prosser High School where he remained for the next 33 years, profoundly impacting countless students. John also received his Master of Education in Professional Development in 1997.

John married the love of his life, Suzanne Bayne, on June 24, 1995. Their love and devotion for each other is inspirational and what few married people will ever know.

John is survived by his wife of 30 years Suzanne Colgren, his brother Gary Colgren, and was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Lew Colgren (Estella), his brother Monte Colgren and sister-in-law Sandrea (Gary) Colgren. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to John's favorite charities: Nature Conservancy- 32 N 3rd St, Yakima, WA 98901. Immanuel Lutheran Church- Grandview, WA. Arbor Day Foundation.

NEPTUNE/PROSSER FUNERAL HOME