John Felicich

John Michael Felicich, July 1st, 1934 - June 11th, 2022, a lifelong resident of San Jose California, has joined his loving parents, Michael and Doris Felicich in heaven.

Devoted and caring husband of Katherine "Kaye" for 62 years. Kaye and John were looking forward to celebrating their wedding anniversary on July 17th with family and friends. Beloved father of daughter Michele & Dave Mitchell and son David & Kylie Felicich. Grandpa extraordinar of Nicole (Derek) Bilte, Ashley & Katie Mitchell, Cecily, Finn, Drake, Grant, and Amy Felicich. Adored Great Grandpa of Colton & Hayden Bilte.

Proceeded in passing by siblings Vincent "Pee Wee" Felicich, Catherine "Sis" Coyle, brothers-in-law Gabriel Ramos & Jack Batinich. Will be greatly missed by his brother Donald "Dugie" Felich & Linda Arnold, sister Doreen Ramos, and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. All of us will miss the sound of his laughter, generous spirit, advice, wisdom, BBQ, and fresh morning catch.

Member of The American Legion Post #0419, Santa Clara. The last of the Willow Glen Tuesday Morning Coffee Gang of Jack Batinich, Clarence Furtado, Gary Schneickert, and more.

John grew up in downtown San Jose and had many fond memories of visiting his grandparents Vincent & Kathrina's ranch in the foothills of San Jose. As a child, his grandmother would hide coins in the sofa for him to find.

After graduating from the San Jose High School Class of 1952, John spent four years in the Air Force, receiving the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. He especially enjoyed his time stationed in Alaska, fishing and hunting with friends. He endured Cold Weather Survival Training at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, and survived the "Big Snow" of 1954-55, during which 132.6 inches fell on Anchorage, AK.

Upon his return from active duty, John went to work for Lockheed Missiles and Space Company. It was a time when you could start off in the mailroom and work your way up to Metrologist. John was very proud of retiring from Lockheed after 39 years. While working at Lockheed, John met the beautiful Katherine Batinich and fell head over heels in love with her over the copy machine. Yes, it was love at first sight. After a whirlwind romance, they were married on July 17th, 1960, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, San Jose. John & Kaye started their new life together. While working & raising a family, John attended West Valley College.

Over the years, John and Kaye threw numerous parties for family and friends at their Willow Glen home. John loved ocean fishing with Mike Wong off the Santa Cruz coast.

Lobster diving with Mike, Charlie Craig, Chuck Mollett, and Tom Huchin. Camping and trout fishing with Gary Schneickert up at the Truckee River. Golfing with his daughter and buddies from Lockheed. Fishing with his son & grandchildren. Rock picking for abalone with family off the Mendocino coast. Teaching the next generation of family & friends the do's & don'ts of abalone. As John grew older, he enjoyed watching from the cliffs as his family would hunt for abalone.

John was very proud of his children and grandchildren. Attended all of his daughter's HS track meets and soccer games. Coached girls PAL & women's softball. Enjoyed fishing & diving with his son David. Would go above and beyond and travel around the state to support his grandchildren in all their endeavors; attending numerous graduations, recitals, theater productions, swim meets, soccer, baseball, softball, karate, dance, and cheerleading competitions. And let's not forget teaching all of us how to drive. John traveled the world with his wonderful wife Kaye at his side - Croatia, Alaska, Italy, the Amazon, China, Australia, Hawaii, Cabo San Lucas, Tasmania, New Zealand, and scuba diving in the Channel Islands. He enjoyed freshly shucked oysters, playing casino slot machines, cheering on his favorite golfer, the thrill of roller coasters, and the soothing sound of the ocean. At the end of the day, you could find him relaxed in his favorite recliner, watching a movie, next to his love.


FOTO: Private