Jan Sterling Stiff

Jan spent his career with the military in one way or another. After 5 years in Army intelligence and 30 years at the Naval Air Warfare Center, China Lake as an analyst in Human Factors and Warfare Analysis groups he retired to take care of his mom. He was an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and helped out when he could with their efforts. His hobbies were: spending time with family, fishing, hiking/backpacking, skiing, woodworking, guitar/keyboard, Magic, and Photography. He was very proficient in all of them, his motto was that “If somethings worth doing you should do your best at it.”

In the 80’s he ran a magic show on weekends doing shows for non-profit organizations to help them raise money (Fire Departments, MWR facilities, school PTA’s etc.) After retirement he took up photography and received numerous awards in both national and international juried competitions. His photos were displayed at various galleries in New York, Washington D.C., Venice Italy, Dallas Texas, Los Angeles, Visalia, and Fresno California.

Although Jan was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2003 he didn’t let that stop him, he continued to love life and to live his life doing his best.

He is survived by his wife Karen, his brothers Jack Ray II (Arlene), Jerry (Cheryl), his daughter Sarah Bull (Ron), step-son William Squire (Valerie) and grandchildren/step-grandchildren Natalie, Aunika, Nick, David, Jonathan and Emma. He was preceded in death by his Father (Jack Ray), his mother (Jeanne), and one brother (Jon). A graveside service will be held at San Joaquin National Veterans Cemetery in Santa Nella on 6 July at 11:30am, where he will be buried.

The family would also like to invite anyone in attendance to join us at Pea Soup Anderson’s afterward to visit and reminisce out of the heat, and maybe have some food or drink. In lieu of flowers please donate to either National Multiple Sclerosis Society or Shriner’s Hospital for Crippled Children.