John Marcus Sodia Jr.

He entered the Airforce on March 31, 1951, at the age of 19. He then went to college, from 1954 - 1958 and received his bachelor’s degree in Education as a music teacher. His first teaching job was in Akron Colorado at Akron High school. He went back to school for his “Master’s Degree in Administration” several years later. He taught band to grade school thru high school students. He mostly enjoyed teaching junior high school age students.

While teaching in Akron he met Ethel Dickmann, through her mother who was also a teacher. They were married on February 7, 1959. They were married for 61 years.

Survived by his children: Charlotte M. (Sodia) Applen, John M Sodia lll, and Patrick M. Sodia

Three grandchildren: Brandon Sodia, Makenzie Sodia, and Makayla Sodia

He loved his music and teaching. He played the French horn growing up. Beautifully, I might add. We enjoyed listening to him play in the evenings after school. Many of his students have commented on what a great teacher he was and the impact he had on their lives.

His favorite pastime was fishing. Every chance he could get, during the summer, he took his family camping/fishing.

He also enjoyed training dogs and bowling. He taught weekly dog obedient training classes. He always loved the companionship of a dog around the house. Later, in retirement, he thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He was a special minister and head usher at his church and received a great amount of satisfaction as a servant.

He cared deeply about his children’s and grandchildren’s successes and failures and would always want to sit and talk with them to help find solutions.

A rosary service for John will be held Saturday, February 26, 2022 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Olinger Hampden Mortuary & Cemetery, 8600 East Hampden Ave, Denver, CO 80231.

A visitation will occur Monday, February 28, 2022 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Risen Christ Catholic Parish, 3060 S Monaco Pkwy, Denver, CO 80222. A funeral service will occur Monday, February 28, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Risen Christ Catholic Parish, 3060 S Monaco Pkwy,, Denver, CO 80222.

A committal service will occur Monday, February 28, 2022 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 12801 W. 44th Ave., Wheat Ridge, CO 80033.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.olingerhampdenmortuary.com for the Sodia family.