

Born on a cool evening, on October 13th, 1949, to John S Annerino and Ida B Schwan in Chicago Illinois, John Joseph Thomas Annerino lead a life of great adventure and creativity.
Growing up with his two sisters, Jacqueline and Valentina, John grew a great affinity towards the outdoors and hiking. He would often go on camping trips with his dog Nero. Their father’s work brought them to Arizona where he attended high school, and he later pursued a degree at Prescott College. It was around this time that he fell in love with capturing the beauty of the outdoors with his camera.
He would later work on the Colorado river as a river guide, for those who shared his love and affinity for the beauty and escape of the outdoors. An avid adventurer, he would carry on running the Grand Canyon, rim to rim, and it was this adventure he would decide to document his adventures in the American Southwest, with his first book, Running Wild.
He documented his many adventures and fountain of knowledge of the American Southwest and Mexico in over 30 books, and countless photos, including shooting for Life magazine and National Geographic. It was on assignment to document a traditional Mexican rodeo, Congreso Nacional Charro, where he met his wife, Alejandrina.
John and his wife would move to Tucson where they had 2 children, John Jr and Nathan. John would continue with his work, documenting Arizona, Mexico and the great Southwest and sharing his love of the outdoors with his family.
When not working on a calendar, book, or more photos, he would spend his free time hiking, frequenting the Arizona Desert.
An inspiration to many, his presence will be sorely missed by his family and his community.
He is survived by his two sisters, his wife, and two sons.
A visitation with service for John will be held Friday, October 24, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Funeraria del Angel Catalina, 3435 N First Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85719. A graveside service will occur Monday, October 27, 2025 from 8:00 AM to 8:45 AM at Holy Hope Cemetery, 3555 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705.
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