John William Amstutz

John was born at McPheeter's Hospital in Modesto on August 4, 1934 to William Amstutz and Lena Ida Ravelli. He attended both Salida Elementary School and Modesto High School. He attended Modesto Junior College and receiving his associate's degree in California Water Quality Control. After college, John found himself with the City of Modesto, serving in the Water Quality Control lab and joining the California Safety Board.

On June 6th in 1957, Jon was inducted into the United States Army and earned the rank of SP-5 (Specialist 5). He served two years at Fort Leonard Wood in St. Louis, Missouri. He spent his time in a laboratory, isolating viruses. He was discharged from service on June 7, 1959. After being discharged, John returned home and returned to his position with the City of Modesto as a lab technician in the Wastewater Treatment Plant, which he nicknamed the "sewer farm".

When John was not working, he had a wide variety of activities that he enjoyed partaking in, such as: photography, bowling, sailing, and more. He was a member of the City of Modesto Bowling League. For those who knew John, they were well-aware of his love for the outdoors, whether it was kayaking, bicycling, or just enjoying the afternoon sun. He also enjoyed tinkering with equipment.

John is survived by his wife Elaine, stepdaughter D'Elena Woodruff, grandchildren Saida and Samuel Moy-Woodruff, and goddaughter Rachel Bennett. He is preceded in death by his parents William and Lena.

A Celebration of Life will be held for John at Lakewood Funeral Home in the Riverside Chapel, located at 900 Santa Fe Avenue in Hughson, on May 15th at 10:00 AM. Following the service will be a graveside service, to give John his final goodbye before he is laid to rest.

An Honor Guard will be present at the graveside; for those with sensitive hearing, it is recommended that ear protection is brought, as there will be a 21 Gun Salute performed.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bristol Hospice in Modesto, located at 1101 Sylvan Avenue, Suite B-10. For more information, please visit their website at bristolhospice-modesto.com or call (209) 338-3000.