John Anthony Escalante

John Anthony Escalante, 61, of Fresno passed away peacefully on Monday, October 26, 2015 at his home with his wife, children and granddaughters at his side. John Anthony retired in 2011 after 32 years with the State of California. He was diagnosed with kidney cancer in March of 2011; God blessed him another four years to enjoy retirement with his wife, children, granddaughters, family and friends.

His family and friends knew him as "Anthony". He was a loving husband, (Rosemary's soulmate) and the best Dad and Grandpa in the world. He was a loving caring good man with a great heart. He provided for his family as his family was his life.

He was an avid San Francisco Giants fan. He loved watching all the San Francisco Giants baseball games with his wife. They never missed a game. He and his wife were able to see the San Francisco Giants win three World Series and had the opportunity to take a photo with all three trophies. He loved the going to the Central Coast with his wife and granddaughters. He loved cooking, gardening and all kinds of music. But most of all he loved being a Grandpa.

Anthony was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Guadalupe Escalante; his sister Frances Plazola (Escalante), and his brother Joe (Pancho) Escalante . Anthony is survived by his wife Rosemary, his three children, Aaron Escalante, Danielle Escalante, and Gemo Orosco; and his three granddaughters his pride and joy (critters) Iris, Lylah and Makayla. Anthony is also survived by his sister Josephine Garcia (John), brother Arthur Escalante (Gina), many nieces, nephews, cousins, in laws, family and friends. Recitation of the Holy Rosary and a Memorial Mass will be held at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church on Monday, November 2, 2015 at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, remembrance may be made to Hinds Hospice, 2490 W. Shaw Avenue Ste. 1011, Fresno, CA 93711

Rosemary would like to thank all the staff and volunteers at Hinds Hospice, especially the Home Health Aide (Mark) and Chaplain (Ruth) for their love and support.