John Oscar Rountree

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved father, John Oscar Rountree, on February 3, 2025, in San Diego, CA. He was a man of deep faith, unwavering love for his family and friends, and a lifelong passion for flying.

Born on December 9, 1949, in California to his devoted parents, Ruben and Audrey Rountree, John was the second of four children, growing up alongside his siblings Carol Brophy, Greg Rountree and Timothy Rountree.

John had four children, Louise Callahan, Sheri Soderlund, John Rountree and Melissa Hart. He was a father figure or brother to his nieces and nephew, Greg Rountree, Dawn Doss, Christy Rountree, Heather Brophy and Tami Rountree. He cherished his role as a grandfather to his 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. He deeply loved his extended family and treated his numerous friends as if they were family.

John's professional journey began in accounting at a young age, eventually leading him to establish his own small business practice. Always an innovator, he purchased one of the first business computers in La Mesa, California, which was about the size of an entire room, intending to use it for his accounting practice. Recognizing the limitations of the existing software, he taught himself programming, developed a more efficient accounting program, and went on to market it to fellow accountants. He continued this entrepreneurial spirit throughout his life, culminating in his final business venture, Rotor Adventures, which he co-founded with Ron Struble, which incorporated his love of flying.

John loved taking long drives with his kids, listening to music spanning Pink Floyd, The Doors, The Beatles, George Benson and Seals & Crofts. He loved his trips to Mexico, as well as traveling with his sister Carol and family to Australia, Costa Rica and the Rountree Family Cruise. John enjoyed camping, riding Sea-Doos and flying small planes, which eventually led him to gyrocopters. His commitment to the Rotorcraft Association exemplified his deep love for aviation and the community it built.

He was also a gifted storyteller, his adventurous spirit provided an endless supply of captivating tales. With a Peter Pan spirit, he loved Disneyland and frequently visited with his children and grandchildren, earning the title "Disney Grandpa." He often broke into songs like "Heigh-Ho" or "A Pirate’s Life for Me." At Disneyland, he loved pretending he was one of the tour guides by raising his hand in the air, shouting: “We’re Walking, We’re Walking and We are Stopping.” His lively presence had everyone laughing and wishing they were part of the fun. While waiting in line for Splash Mountain he would delight his loved ones as well as those around with animated retellings of Brer Rabbit stories, complete with unique voices. His children honored his love for Disneyland by purchasing a brick paver in his name, which remains at the park today.

John's faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was always there to lend a helping hand or listen whenever someone was in need. He never hesitated to share his love for the Lord with anyone, at any time. He passionately believed in the power of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit to bring healing and guidance.

He will be deeply missed, but his spirit and the joy he brought to our lives will forever remain in our hearts and memories.