John Richard Radcliffe

John was born in Orange, California and moved to Los Angeles at a young age. He graduated in the winter class from Manual Arts High School in 1953. Post graduation he joined the Navy and was stationed in New Jersey. Upon his return to California he enrolled at Pepperdine College and played baseball, earning the nickname, "Wheels." John graduated with a bachelor of science degree and began teaching and coaching in Compton.

In 1968 John was named Varsity Baseball Coach at Torrance High School. Then in 1970 he married his wife of 39 years Carolyn Christopher, whom he had met at Pepperdine. During his more than three decades at Torrance High along with being baseball coach, he coached track, football, volleyball, and softball as well as being the schools athletics and activities director. After "retirement" John went on to work in the compliance office at Long Beach State often joking that, "Now that he had finished high school, he was off to college!"

John was also well known for his work with the Lakers. He was employed by the organization for 48 years, most of those serving as the teams Official Scorer.

John was a member of First Lutheran Church of Torrance since 1978 serving as a head usher and in various other capacities, which brought him great joy.

He is survived by his wife Carolyn, son Kris (wife) Eden, granddaughters Victoria and Courtney, daughter Suzanne Hannemann (husband) Nick, grandson Hunter, sister Susan Radcliffe and her husband Lee Zitko, and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be at First Lutheran Church, 2900 West Carson St. in Torrance, at 3:00 PM on Sunday September 27th. A reception in Faith Hall at the same location will follow. All are welcome to come and celebrate John's life.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for contributions to "Project Faith" at First Lutheran Church in memory of John Radcliffe. John will be missed by so many but most of all by his loving family who are so thankful for everyday that they had with him.

Please use this website, www.LAfuneral.com to send the family messages or share memories.