Community remembers transit manager

Grant Transit Authority manager died Wednesday

QUINCY - The Grant Transit Authority manager died in his Quincy home Wednesday of a heart attack.

John G. Escure, 58, is described as a man who was committed to the community and the transit authority.

He began working with the transit system before it became an official program, Transit Administrative Assistant Brandy Heston said. He worked with the program for close to 12 years, she added.

Escure began as the finance officer for the transit authority and eventually gained an additional title as transit manager in early 2000, Heston said.

She said she enjoyed working with Escure because he was a good person and was committed to the transit authority.

Heston said he always paid close attention to the program and had the best interests of the community in mind. He wanted to help people, she said.

Warden Mayor Roldan Capetillo said he worked with Escure for approximately four years through the Grant Transit Authority Board of Directors.

"I think he was a great man and I'm very sad he passed away," he said.

Grant County Commissioner Cindy Carter, who serves the transit board, said Escure's death was a surprise and is a great loss to the community.

She said he worked hard toward the success of the transit authority and was always willing to accommodate other's needs.

Carter described Escure as kind, exceptional and helpful.

Capetillo and Carter said they send their respect and condolences to Escure's family.

Escure is survived by several family members including his wife Diane, two sons and two stepdaughters.

Diane said she did not feel ready to talk about her husband when contacted by the Columbia Basin Herald.

Escure grew up in Quincy and graduated from Quincy High School in 1967.

At the high school he participated in student government, wrestling and was a member of Future Farmers of America.

Escure served in Thailand during the Vietnam War with the U.S. Air Force from 1969 to 1972.

He enjoyed several outdoor and hands-on activities.

Escure spent his time playing the piano, restoring classic cars, riding horses and motorcycles, woodworking and spending time with his family.

Mass of the Christian Burial was held this morning at St. Pius X Catholic Church in Quincy.