John Spencly Berwick

August 7, 1964 – August 11, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John “Big John” Berwick, a

beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, coach, and friend, who left us on August 11, 2025,

at the age of 61.

Born on August 7, 1964, in Downey, California, John lived a life full of purpose, passion, and

unwavering love for his family and community. A gifted athlete, he attended Fresno Pacific

University on a full basketball scholarship after two years at Cypress College, where he played

under the legendary coach Don Johnson. John earned his Bachelor of Science in Physical

Education, combining his love of sports with his passion for teaching and mentorship.

Basketball: John’s athletic accomplishments were exceptional. At La Mirada High School, he

earned All-State, All-League, and All-City honors all four years. His dedication and talent

earned him a full scholarship to Fresno Pacific University, where he made an incredible

impact on the court. He earned All-Conference honors every year, was named Conference

Player of the Year his senior season, and served as team captain and team MVP his final year

of college.

Boxing: John was also a powerhouse in the boxing ring. He was a two-time Golden Gloves

California State Heavyweight Champion, a three-time Police Olympics heavyweight

champion, and a World Games Police heavyweight champion. He compiled an

impressive 22–1 boxing record.

After college, John became a journeyman ironworker with Local 433, where his strong work

ethic and leadership quickly set him apart. In 1989, he began his career at the California Youth

Authority in Camarillo before transferring to the Paso Robles Youth Correctional Facility in

1994. Over nearly two decades, he served on the tactical team and played a pivotal role in

shaping young lives. In 2008, John transitioned to the California Department of State Parole,

where he was part of the Gang Investigation Task Force and the Sexual Offenders Unit,

continuing his lifelong commitment to justice and rehabilitation. He retired after 28 years of

public service.

John had a heart of gold and a joy for life that was contagious. He had a way of making

everyone—regardless of their background—feel valued and seen. A natural-born storyteller,

John could light up any room with his humor, his quick wit, and his endless energy. He was

a leader, a coach, and a mentor not only to his own children but to many of their friends,

shaping lives both on and off the basketball court.

Beyond his career, John loved deeply and lived fully. He had a passion for empowering those

around him and making a difference in people’s lives. He cherished the simple things—

driving his Willys Jeep out on the ranch, riding horses, spending time at the beach, and being

surrounded by his dogs, and finding killer deals on Craigslist. He was an animal lover, an

adventurer, and a man who embraced life’s little joys. A gifted writer and storyteller, John

always had a story to share, a lesson to teach, and a way of making everyone around him laugh.

Above all, nothing brought him greater joy than his family.

John is survived by his loving wife and soulmate, Sherri Berwick, and their children J.D.,

Natalie, Shannon, and Robert. He was a proud “Papa” to his grandchildren Ellie

Berwick and Walker Berwick, with another grandchild on the way. John is also survived by his

sisters Patty Roberts, Rae Lynn Lucas, and Terressa Berwick, who shared an unbreakable

bond with him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and generosity that will live on in

the countless lives he touched.

A celebration of John’s life will be held on Saturday, September 13th, from 12:00 p.m. to

2:00 p.m. at the Atascadero High School Gymnasium. Family and friends are invited to join us

as we honor and remember this extraordinary man.

Big John will forever be remembered for his larger-than-life personality, his endless

compassion, and his ability to make everyone around him feel like family. His light lives on in

the hearts of those who knew and loved him