John Joseph Coopersmith

Monterey ~ John Coopersmith, a lifelong Monterey resident, passed away on June 9. Born on Pine Street in New Monterey, he attended Bayview Elementary School and was a graduate of Monterey High School. John served in the US Merchant Marines from 1944 – 1946 and then in the US Navy for two years. A skilled brick and stone mason, he worked on many homes and commercial properties in the area.

As a young man, John was a Golden Gloves Champion, Amateur Athletic Union Champion and All Army Champion in the 126-pound division. He was a member of St. Angela Merici Church, the American Legion Post 41 and a fifty-seven year member of the B.A.C. Local #3.

John is survived by his brother, D. D. of Seaside; his children, John, Jr. (Sue) of Carmel Valley, Ray of Monterey, Gloria Paulton of Camarillo and Susan (Bruce) Bowman of Fresno; his grandchildren, Zoey, Aubrey and Felicity Bowman, Chris Coopersmith and his son, Chase, Terry Reigle, Adam Coopersmith, Alex Coopersmith and his son, Danny. He was preceded in death by his son, Danny, in 1991; his mother, Emma Marotta Coopersmith and his siblings, Ray Coopersmith, Frank Bruno and Rosemary Graxiola.

Visitation will take place at The Paul Mortuary Chapel this Thursday, June 20 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM. Rosary and Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Angela Merici Church the next day, Friday, June 21 at 11:00 AM followed by entombment at San Carlos Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the donor’s favorite charity