UDT-SEAL ASSOCIATION

John Edward Kainer - Class 166

It is with great sadness that the UDT-SEAL Association informs the membership that after a battle with brain cancer John Kainer passed away on January 18th.A memorial service will be held at the Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek Chapel on Friday, January 23rd at 10 a.m. A reception will follow at Snug Harbor. A committal ceremony will be held at the US Naval Academy Columbarium on Monday, January 26, 2009 at 11 a.m. John lived his life with passion and intensity that resulted in not only achievements and accolades, but more importantly, tremendous personal relationships that supported him throughout his 11 year battle with cancer. John's wife and three children was the core of this support and brought immense joy to his life.

John attended the United States Naval Academy, wrestled all four years, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering in 1989. Upon completion of SEAL training, John embarked on an exemplary career, excelling as a warrior and a leader. His assignments included SEAL Team THREE, Naval Special Warfare Unit EIGHT, SEAL Team TWO and Naval Special Warfare Development Group. Receiving numerous commendations and always setting high standards, he was on a successful path with his SEAL career. While parachuting as part of a training exercise, John experienced a seizure. He skillfully deployed the parachute despite the seizure and landed safely. In the subsequent years following the diagnosis and treatment, John completed three marathons, tow Raid Gauloises adventure races and two Ironman races. He was the epitome of a true warrior, competitor and dignified individual.In civilian life, John worked for Ethicon Endo-Surgery Inc., EMC Corporation, and during the last four years with DePuy Orthopedics as a sales manager for joint replacement products. He worked directly with orthopedic surgeons, earning their respect.

A loving father and husband, John is survived by his wife and tireless caregiver, Betsy Byron Kainer, formerly as Asheville, NC, whom he married in 1999, his three children: Jack 7, Gini 5 and Maddie 3; his mother Fran Yongue Kellner and her husband William Kellner of Lafayette, LA; his father Edward Lester Kainer and his wife Ginger of Houston, TX. He is also survived by two brothers, James and Paul Kainer and his grandmother Virginia Yongue, all of Lafayette, LA. He was preceded in death by his brother, Mike Kainer.In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Team Kainer in care of Anne Spillance, 1537 W. Little Neck Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23452.

The following website is a chronicle of John's life:

www.caringbridge.org/visit/johnkainer