John Phillip Avila, 76, of Sanger CA, passed away Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at his home in Sanger. A Celebration of Life service will be held at New Hope Community Church, 4620 Nees Ave (between Clovis and Sunnyside Avenues). Clovis CA 93611 on Wednesday July 30, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.
John was born to Juan and Micaela Avila on February 5, 1949, in Fresno, California and lived in Laton California where he attended Laton Grammar, Laton High School and some of his military and college years. John was very active at Laton High School, he played several sports and excelled in Football and Baseball “Go Mustangs”. He was a member of the schools Madrigal Choir, Student Council and was Student Boby President his Senior year. He graduated in June of 1968.
John is survived by his son John Avila and wife Ciciley, stepchildren Michelle Ramirez and Mike Ferraro, Grandchildren Austin Avila, Caliska Avila, Ariel Ramirez, Adam Ramirez, Bailey Ramirez, Jennifer Ferraro, Jon Jon Ferraro and several other step grand and great grandchildren. Sisters Veronica McKelvey, Mary Lou Davis (Norm), Mickey Lord (Richard), Angelina Mosher and brother Joseph Avila (Mary). He is proceeded in death by his wife Karen Avila, parents Juan and Micaela Avila, sisters Florence Diaz, Basiliza Gonzalez, Jennie Martinez, Antonia Guerra and Eleanor Avila.
After graduating from high school John joined the California Army National Guard and proceeded to Fort Dix U S Army base in New Jersey. After his return home from basic training, he Studied at Fresno City College. In 1972 John started his career at Pacific Gas and Electric, first in the gas department then went on to become a Journeyman Lineman and Foreman. John retired from PG&E in 2012 after forty years of service.
After retirement, John raised beef and ranched to pass his time. He loved the outdoors, mountains, hunting, fishing, and remained a pillar in his rural community, it is evident in the many organizations he was part of, they include: the National Rifle Association, California Waterfowl Association, Ducks Unlimited, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the Fresno County Farm Bureau.
John was an avid sports fan, a faithful fan of the Raiders, Dodgers, NASCAR, National Bull Riding Association and Women’s Softball.
Above all, John was a devoted family man. A loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather, he had a gift for making others feel valued and seen.
There will be a Celebration of Life at New Hope Community Church at 11:30 AM
