John Posnien, lifelong and devoted Huntsville resident, beloved husband, and former Shooting Star Saloon owner passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 27, 2014. John was born June 22, 1938 in Ogden, Utah to Walter and Rhoda Posnien and they and his sister Nancy moved to present day Huntsville in 1948. Once in Huntsville, he loved the town so much, he decided at that point that he was never going to leave. After graduating from Ogden High, he later followed in his fathers footsteps as an optician and ran the Ogden Optical Store. At that time, he also met his future wife Heidi, "the most beautiful woman that Germany ever produced" who remained at his side till the end. Following his career as an optician, John became a successful real estate broker and ultimately he pursued his passion to own the infamous Shooting Star Saloon. Over the years, he and Heidi remained vigilant in maintaining and preserving the historical and symbolic importance of the longest continually running bar in Utah. John held court in the bar, telling elaborate stories of the past and singing his favorite cowboy songs. Once patrons had settled in and started to enjoy the evening atmosphere, he would then proceed to kick everyone out and close the baras he was tired and decided it was time to go home. John was a complex character. He was born with a natural charm, quick wit, a twinkle in his eye, but also had the reputation of being stubborn as a mule. But he would debate because he cared. He was committed to safeguarding the town and way of life that generations before had done for us. He served on the town council and with his exceptional memory remained over the years a town historian and consult. John was most grateful and proud in 2011 when Huntsville named Heidi and him the Grand Marshalls for the annual July 4th parade. John is survived by his wife, Heidi Posnien; grandchildren, Andrea Park and Andre C. Park; sister, Nancy (Richard) Marty; Rhondas step-daughter, Lisa (Eric) Shumway, He was preceded in death by both parents, daughter, Rhonda Andersen, granddaughter, Tara Andersen, and son, Andre P. Park. John will be missed by his family and friends, but his spirit will live on in the cowboy songs that continue to play in the little bar down the street. Special thank yous to Encompass Home Health who took such good care of John, our wonderful Huntsville neighbors who have been so helpful and supportive, and to Dr. Seth Lewis and his staff. Funeral Services will be held Monday, October 6, 2014 at Leavitts Mortuary, 836 - 36th St., Ogden, UT at 10:00 am. A viewing will be held Sunday, October 5, 2014 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm at Leavitts Mortuary and one hour prior to the services from 9:00 - 9:45 am Visitation Information Date: Sunday, October 5, 2014 Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Leavitt's Mortuary Address: 836 36th Street , , Ogden, UT, 84403 801-394-5556 | Map Leavitts Mortuary 836-36th St. Ogden, UT There will also be a viewing from 9:00 - 9:45 am prior to the service on Monday, Oct 6 Service Information Date: Monday, October 6, 2014 Time: 10:00 am - Leavitts Mortuary Address: 836 36th Street, , Ogden, UT, 84403 801-394-5556 | Map Leavitts Mortuary 836-36th St Ogden, UT There will also be a visitation from 9:00 - 9:45 am prior to the service. Cemetery Information Date: Monday, October 6, 2014 Huntsville City Cemetery Address: , , , , | Map Interment will be after the service that begins at 10:00 am at Leavitts Mortuary, 836-36th St. Ogden