John Michael Mander II

Johnny was a deep soul; intelligent, curious, and endlessly kind. He was also one of the most outgoing, caring, and genuinely helpful people you could ever meet. He always had a smile on his face and never hesitated to jump in and lend a hand, whether it was helping a friend at work, pulling a truck out of the mud while off-roading, or tinkering in the garage.

Johnny loved anything with an engine, especially his beloved Chevelle, his Ram, and his semi-trucks. He kept them all sparkling clean, always proud to see them shining. He had a true passion for cars, planes, and space...if it went fast and roared to life, it had his attention.

He was an Eagle Scout who loved the outdoors: camping, hiking, off-roading, and riding quads brought him joy. He was a hands-on kind of guy, someone who felt most at home building, fixing, and exploring. And while he was known for his adventurous side, those close to him knew his tenderness, especially in how he cared for animals and found purpose working on the farm with Shannon and their dog, Rusty, who may have been a “ruined cattle dog” by all the love and spoiling Johnny gave him.

Johnny had recently started studying to become an airplane mechanic, building a new chapter in his life. He was preparing for one of the most meaningful roles yet, becoming a father to twins, a daughter and son, with Shannon. He was already so proud and excited to meet them.

He was also his Dad’s best friend — their bond was filled with trust, humor, and a lifetime of love. He leaves behind many who miss him deeply, and whose lives were better because of his.

Johnny was complex, full of dreams, and full of heart. He lived with joy, generosity, and courage and he leaves a space no one else can fill.

John is survived by his father, John Michael Mander Sr., and his mother, Judy Mander, both of Lake San Marcos, California; his sister, Tracy Mander of Pacific Grove, California; and his fiancée, Shannon Ragsdale, his two soon to be son and daughter, and dog Rust, all off Sanger, CA. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles — Alice and Doug Rimer, Kathy and Edward Melka, Victoria Lillian Coxs, and Pat Mander — as well as many cousins and extended family members across generations.

A memorial service for John will be held Sunday, July 6, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Self-Realization Fellowship Encinitas Temple, 939 2nd St, Encinitas, CA 92024. Following the memorial service will be a celebration of life at 3:30 PM at Encinitas Community & Senior Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024.