John was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He is survived by his beloved wife, Melay Marcrum-Gates; children, Jessica Gates and Jonathan Gates; grandchildren, Bailey Marquez, Blake Marquez, Brent Marquez, and Jamir Graham; siblings, Jesse Marcrum (Lolita), Jimmy Marcrum, and Theresa Garvin; and sister-in-law, Mylinh Reeves. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Synski, and father, James Marcrum.
John earned his Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering from San Diego State University. He proudly served 11 years in the United States Air Force and Air Force Reserves, and was honorably discharged in 1986. He went on to build a distinguished career in aerospace engineering, working with Boeing and the U.S. Department of Defense before continuing his civilian career with NASA. At NASA, John served as both, the first System Safety Branch chief, and the Mission Assurance lead for the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) program. He brought his expertise, dedication, and commitment to safety to some of the nation’s most important aerospace programs.
While John was proud of his career and service, his greatest legacy was the love he shared with his family. He will be remembered for his dedication, accomplishments, and the lasting impact he made on those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
In lieu of flowers the family kindly asks that you make a donation to St Jude Children's Hospital under John's name.
