Obituaries

Condolences

• 10/01/2021

  Gerry Dunn

  I first met John in the laboratory at Highland Hospital, Oakland while waiting to give the County blood and urine samples in order to qualify ourselves to become Trainees with the Probation Dept. That was in June 1967. A couple of weeks later we met again at the start of the Fall Training Session conducted by Paul Green. John and I shared a common upbringing, including family life, education, and interests and we quickly developed a close friendship which continued throughout our lives. I was proud to have served at his best man at Donna and his wedding and to have been selected by them as Michael's godfather. Probably the one thing that impressed me the most during our early history was his quick adjustment to the East Bay. Unlike most of my acquaintances who had roots in San Francisco, John never came across as being haughty or arrogant that he was from "The City." Of course, now that I've learned that he was born in Baltimore, it all makes sense! John and I were fortunate to spend about 3 years together as shift supervisors at Senior Camp just prior to the vote to approve Prop 13. It was during those years too that we both took a course to prepare ourselves to become real estate agents. We passed the state test but decided to stay with the County rather than risk striking out on our own without a guaranteed pension. John rarely found fault with others. He did enjoy competing against them in golf, softball and various gambling ventures, including trips to Tahoe overnight and a Hearts game during lunch at work. He also enjoyed his garden at home and camping adventures with his family. The past dozen years were not good for John and I'm sure he wondered, "Why me?"; but I cannot recall him ever complaining about his many health issues. The last time Bob Shobar and I saw him, about two weeks before he passed away, he was responsive to our questions and interested in the news we brought him - just like always. I will deeply miss him.

• 10/01/2021

  Fred Rohrer

  I first met John in 1978 and we worked in the same office in Fremont for many years. We played in a few golf tournaments (scramble format) and John could always be counted on for many long, booming drives and an occasional great putt. He certainly knew his Giants baseball history and I recall that we attended the very first Giants win in the new ATT Park in 2000. We also went to several Pro tennis matches and participated in a bike race on the old Embarcadero Freeway just before it was torn down. John was a good friend who showed fortitude and considerable courage as he faced these last few difficult years. I will certainly miss my old friend.

• 10/01/2021

  Ginny

  1 file added to the album Yosemite 2007

• 10/01/2021

  quarter20

  5 files added to the album New Album Name