John F Rose, known as Banjo, born March 19, 1949 of Shively, has reunited with his late son Jordan Forrest Rose. Banjo passed peacefully in his home on January 16th of 2025, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife Patricia Rose; his sons Evan Andrew Rose and Green Leaf Burns; his nine grandchildren; his brother Shane Rose; and his only daughter Amanda Rose Moody.

Banjo was raised in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. He traveled to the West Cost for adventure. Banjo came to Humboldt in 1970 from Berkeley. He fell in love with the landscape and the idea of coming back to the land. He built a beautiful family home down miller ranch road.

While attending Humboldt State University in 1991, Banjo received his BA in English as manga cum laude. In 1992 he received his teaching credential. In 1993 he received his masters in linguistics. From 1996-2003 he was the head academic advisor for the upward bound program at Humboldt state university. Banjo was a huge believer in higher education as a way to expand one’s mind to great heights.

John had many passions in life, the banjo was by far his deepest love. He started pickin at about 12. His teacher quickly informing his mother that he had nothing left to teach him and he’d have to continue the journey on his own. Banjo played in many bands throughout the years, his longest standing being Slackjaw (2002-2006), bandmates being Huck on the fiddle and Jeff Kelly on guitar, along with other wonderful bluegrass musicians from throughout the area.

His music will be missed dearly. Banjo John always lived life on his terms. He was an incredibly intelligent man whose adventures build a life many dream of. A handsome mountain man with dry wit. A bottomless pint glass on his table, banjo in his lap, and a twinkle in his eye.

A celebration of life will be announced as details are not set yet.