John Montan Vassar

John was born on September 16, 1930, to Robert A. Vasser and Thelma M. Vasser, both of whom preceded him in death.

John was proud to be a member of Mission High School’s ROTC program in San Francisco, CA. He took the program very seriously and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel by the time he graduated in 1949. Upon graduation, he joined the NROTC and went on a U.S. Navy WestPac tour that included Japan and China. He was assigned to the USS Butner, a transport ship.

After completing this extensive tour, he enrolled at Abilene Christian College, where he met and married Barbara. With the outbreak of the Korean War, John enlisted in the United States Air Force and was assigned to Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio. He proudly served his country, a commitment that reflected his deep sense of duty and love for his nation.

Following Barbara’s graduation, they moved to San Francisco, where John began his career in finance and later became an independent building contractor specializing in exterior home upgrades.

John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared many wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Barbara Jean Vassar (Morris), who preceded him in death. They were inseparable—traveling the world by freighter, and exploring new cultures and food.

He is survived by his children: Elaine (Henry), Paul (Christine), and John (Laura). He was a proud grandfather to Adrianne, Sarita (Martin), Laura (Lee), Matthew, Thomas (Morgan), Samuel, and Elizabeth, and a great-grandfather to Elora, Norah, Oliver, Linus, Luca, and Adelaide. He was preceded in death by his great-grandchild, Henry. He is also survived by his brother, Robert, and his sister, Judy, along with many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

John will be remembered for his steadfast faith, strength, and deep love for his family. He loved to travel the world and was an avid learner, always curious and engaged with the people and places around him. He was clever and witty and loved to tell stories, bringing joy and laughter to those fortunate enough to spend time with him.

A graveside service will be held on March 30, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Billington Cemetery, near Prairie Hill, Texas.