Obituaries

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle John Robert Herndon. John was born in San Francisco to John and Clifton Herndon on July 15, 1949. He passed away quietly at his home in Fremont on January 10, 2024, at the age of 74. John is survived by his wife, Peggy, his two sons Robert and Patrick, Patrick’s wife Megan O’Neill, and his grandson Ryan. John is also survived by his seven brothers and sisters Anne, Felix, Mary, Louise, Liz, Matt, Ben and their partners and children. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Peter.

John graduated from St. Francis High School in Mountain View in 1967 and from San Jose State University in 1978. He worked for many years in sales and as a purchasing manager for various electronics companies in the Bay Area. He was often fond of saying “whether it’s a paper clip or a giant machine, I’ll take care of it.” His true love, however, was all things related to history. He had a keen mind for historical details and loved to debate the merits of historical facts with anyone who was willing.

John also enjoyed politics and sports, and he especially loved the Golden State Warriors, the San Francisco 49ers, the San Francisco Giants, and of course his alma mater the San Jose State Spartans. He also had a passion for landscaping and for a time, had his own landscaping company, working with his brother Peter. In his later years, he spent many hours working in the yard and taking care of the flowers and plants around his home.

To his siblings, John was the consummate “big brother.” He was always there in a pinch when you needed him – day or night – always ready to lend a helping hand. One inspirational experience that had a profound impact on John was, as a young adult, working as a counselor at a camp for at-risk youth. His big heart showed through his generosity of spirit.

We will all miss him dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s memory to Spectrum Community Services, the American Cancer Society, Mended Little Hearts, or another charity of your choice.