John A. Antista, 90, departed this life on Sunday, February 8, 2026. He was surrounded by his family. John was born to Tony and Fay Antista in the coal mining camp of Sopris, Colorado, on October 1, 1935. He was the fifth of six children, born on his mother’s 29th birthday. He attended Lincoln School in Sopris through sixth grade, before his family moved to Trinidad, Colorado, where he graduated from Holy Trinity High School.
Upon graduation, he attended Regis College before joining the Jesuit Order in St. Louis in 1955. During his formation in seminary, he attended St. Louis University where he earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and a master’s degree in sociology with a minor in education. He later taught English and social studies at St. Louis University High School beginning his many years in the classroom guiding young lives.
After 10 years in the Jesuit Order, John left the Jesuits and continued his work in education, earning an Educational Specialist degree in Guidance and Counseling from Wayne State University. He married his beloved wife, Diane Bada, on June 22, 1968, and together they raised two sons, John Bart and Nick.
John earned his Doctorate in Curriculum and Counseling in 1974 from Wayne State University and served as Coordinator of Student Services at Holmes Middle School in Colorado Springs, Colorado, until his retirement in 2000. Known for his warmth, humor, and ability to connect with anyone he met, he left a lasting impression on students and colleagues alike. He also taught graduate courses at the University of Colorado and, in 1997, received the prestigious Clifford Houston Award from the Colorado Counselors Association that recognizes a counselor whose skills and commitment stand as a model for all.
He loved life. He loved meeting new people, spending time at Cripple Creek, traveling near and far, eating good food, laughing often, telling stories, and cherishing time with his family and especially his grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy.
He is survived by his loving wife, Diane; his sons, John Bart Antista and Nick Antista; his son-in-law, Rodolfo Bulnes; his daughter-in-law, Elise Antista; and his grandchildren, Vincent and Cecilia Antista. He is survived by his siblings, Theresa (Vernon) Wood, Elizabeth DelMonte, and Domenic (Kathy) Antista, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Fay and Tony Antista; his sister, Mary Antista Smith; his brother, Bart Antista; his brother-in-law, Bill DelMonte; and sister-in-law, Lori Antista.
Visitation will be held at Queen of the Holy Rosary, located at 22779 Metcalf Rd, Bucyrus, KS, 66013, on February 16, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am followed by the Rosary service. The Mass of Christian Burial will start at 11:30 am. A Graveside Service will follow at the Church Cemetery of Queen of the Holy Rosary.
