John James Cantor

John J. Cantor, born April 26, 1917 in St. Paul, Minnesota passed away peacefully in his home in Ladera Ranch, Ca. surrounded by loved ones on July 21, 2025. He "Crossed the Bar" into the waiting arms of Jesus Christ into eternal rest.

John was one of four children born to Romanian immigrant parents, John and Mary Cantor. He is preceded in death by his sisters, Helen Costew and Mary Zachary and his brother, Nick Cantor.

John and Lois Cantor were married in 1942 and spent 80 wonderful years side by side, until her passing in 2022. John is survived by his daughters, Patricia Craig and Kathleen Tucker, as well as many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind numerous relatives whom he loved dearly — many of whom affectionately called him “Uncle Johnny.”

John graduated from Pershing High School in Detroit, Michigan, in 1934 and joined the United States Navy later that year, during the Great Depression.

John loved the Navy (he likely had salt water in his veins). He served proudly on the USS Altair AD11 and the USS Moffett DD362, but his favorite ship was the USS Midway. While John was honorably discharged on December 2, 1941, with plans to join the Detroit Police Department, he quickly, and without hesitation, returned to military service following the attack on Pearl Harbor 5 days later. John wore his Navy uniform with pride and honor until his retirement on April 1, 1965, as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CWO4). Over a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years—including World War II, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the Cold War, and peacetime—he was stationed around the globe, serving his country with unwavering dedication and honor.

John and his wife Lois made San Diego their hometown in 1958. John worked for the California Division of Highways for several years and then for San Diego County as Custodian of Superior Court exhibits. He was an active member of various retired military organizations including FRA Branch 80, Ocean Beach (Secretary /Treasurer), FRA Br. 70Poway, MOWW (Chaplain), VFW Post 7766, MOAA, American Legion, Post 149, NAUS, Navy League, NNWA, USS Hector Assn, USS Lenawee. USS Midway Assn. Crew member, Squadron and Shipmates Midway/FDR, USS Midway Veterans Assn. He was also a longtime member of PBS and the San Diego Zoological Society.

John’s reunion with his daughter Patti later in life brought him immense joy. Being reunited and witnessing the legacy he left behind—in his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren—was a special gift he deeply attributed to his faith. John was profoundly grateful for his exceptional caregiving team at the end of his life, including Daryl, Pam, and the staff at Vitas Healthcare (hospice).

John and his wife Lois were members of the Life Bridge church in San Diego for many years. As a devoted Christian, John loved the Lord and faithfully served Him throughout his life. He now joins the many friends and family who have gone before him in heaven. Until we meet again.