Resident of San Jose

Whatever John Marcoida did, he did his best. A gifted athlete, he could throw a baseball from centerfield all the way over home plate. John earned All-League titles in varsity baseball (centerfielder) and football (guard) at Pioneer High School. He passed on March 28th – crossing home plate peacefully in his sleep. On January 4th, 1948, he came into this world in San Jose, California, as the proud child of Genevieve Garcia Marcoida and Juan Hoyos Marcoida. His parents taught him to work hard, do his best and respect others. John embodied these principles as a son, brother, father, husband, friend and student. After graduating in 1966, he attended San Jose City College until serving as an Army Infantryman in Vietnam during the 1968 Tet Offensive. As a soldier, John felt that no one should be left behind. He believed strongly in loyalty and honor, and he displayed courage and bravery in his unit. After being honorably discharged in 1970, John studied as an apprentice and worked as a full-time union meat cutter at the San Jose Moffett Field Commissary. His strong work ethic enabled him to provide for his family, build a home and put three children through college prep schools.

John is survived by his children: John (Eva), Tanner (Jeanette), Ashley, Michelle, and Nichole; siblings: Anna (Steve), Virginia (Jim) and Christina (Cord); grandchildren: Liliana, Marley, Jacob, Ulysses, Manuel, Kamille, Jasmine, Milisant, Mason, Maylene-Dee (Brandon), Carter, and Michelle (Ryan); nieces and nephews: Jennifer, Allison, Michael, Nona (Cesar) Maya (Barry), and Diego (Joyce); grandnieces: Wendy and Daniella; two prior wives: Chris and Jacky; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws and many dear friends who were like family.

John possessed a huge heart filled with loyal friends, a loving family and anyone in need of compassion. A warm and strong hug from John lifted anyone’s spirit -no matter what their pain. He captivated those sitting at the dinner table with his amazing storytelling, oftentimes ending with rounds of laughter. John will be missed by all who loved him. Way to go, John. You are safely home -safe from war, safe from pain and into the waiting arms of your wife, Dorothy, Mom, Dad, Grandma, sister, Margie and brothers, David and Juan Gabriel. May you all be united in peace.

A memorial for “Papa John” will be held on Sunday, April 27th at 11:00 a.m. at Chapel of Flowers, 900 Second Street, San Jose, CA. Lunch reception to follow at 1:00.