John Charles Virden

July 21/42 – October 27/25

John was a beloved husband, father and grandfather who passed away in his sleep from Alzheimer’s complications earlier this fall. His life reflected his faithful relationship with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Born in New Mexico to Pastor Charles & Dorothy Virden along with three younger sisters, the family of six headed west to California living in many small towns along the way for very short stints ministering to the locals… John attended eight elementary schools.

After settling in Southern California, he met Patricia Ann Lewis while attending the First Baptist Church in Las Flores Canyon, Malibu. They married in 1963 and enthusiastically shared 62

years together!

In the early years, Patty worked to support their two daughters as John completed his Accountancy Degree from Cal State Fullerton. In 1977 with a few years of work experience under his belt, John moved his young family into the Santa Clarita Valley, quit his job and combined his business acumen with his innate ability to build, fix, or do anything to start his own AVL business; one he considered a ministry to support the audible spreading the Word of God. John had a curiosity for all things, rarely resting without a pad and pen in hand. Relying heavily on their faith and family, John & Patty built two successful businesses together.

John is survived by his loving wife Patty Lewis, one sister Jean Unteriner, oldest daughter Catherine Strader & husband Tom, and youngest daughter Lora Cruz & husband Michael, as well as five grandchildren who have all enjoyed many RV camping trips and adventures with their Pa.

A Memorial Service is planned for January 31st 2026 to be hosted at Grace Baptist Church, Johns home church, where he considered it a privilege to learn from, grow with, and mentor others in his church family.