1932 – 2019
John Bernard Fitzpatrick Jr, 87, of San Diego, CA passed away on October 28, 2019. He was born on September 1, 1932 in Chicago, IL.
John grew up in Chicago, IL and joined the Navy in 1948 where he served in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He started his career on the USS Formoe and was a plank owner in launching the USS Henry B. Wilson. He was a machinist mate second class during his career in the Navy and his service earned him several medals of recognition including two Purple Hearts. After retiring from the Navy, he settled in San Diego where he met and married Van Thi Ngo with whom he gained a stepson as well as having two daughters. John spent the rest of his career working at the Salk Institute where he used the many skills he learned in the Navy.
Following his retirement from the Salk Institute he spent his time enjoying the open road in his car, bowling and fishing. He found solace and happiness while driving which lead to many road trips across country with his kids. As an avid bowler, he was a staple at Mira Mesa Lanes where he played in many leagues throughout the years and had several 300 games. John also continued his love of the sea through fishing even though he detested seafood.
As a man of routine, he wore the same Korea Vietnam Veteran hat every day and could be found at least twice daily at the Donut Stop in Mira Mesa drinking coffee with his friends for the past 20+ years.
John spent his life dedicated to his family and friends. He was remarkably kind and generous to friends and strangers alike. He would always be the first person to offer his help in any situation and would do nearly anything for anyone with no questions asked and no return effort expected.
He will be remembered for all of the stories he told of his life and of his Navy adventures (some PG and many not) but also for the charismatic charm that made you glad you knew him.
John is survived by his wife Van Thi Ngo of San Diego, CA; stepson Trung Doan; daughters, Michelle Fitzpatrick Richter, Susan (Fitzpatrick) Margro and his six grandchildren; Aden, Audrey, Avery, Devin, Ronan and Ellis, all San Diego residents.
A memorial service for family and friends will be held on Tuesday November 19, 2019 from 11:30 to 12:30pm at Funeraria del Angel on 607 National City Blvd National City, CA 91950
Following the service, we will bring John to rest at Miramar National Cemetery on 5795 Nobel Drive, San Diego, CA 92122. The Ceremony will start promptly at 2:30pm.
Reception to follow at Karl Strauss Brewery in Sorrento Mesa on 9675 Scranton Road, San Diego, CA 92121
Please feel free to dress casually, as that is what John would have wanted.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory to this Veteran charity would be appreciated
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