John Stephen Ospital

John Stephen Ospital, age 74, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2026.

Born on December 7, 1951, in Stockton, John was the middle child of Jack and Jeannelle Ospital, with his older brother Franke and younger sister Noelle Ospital-Schenone. He spent his entire life on his family’s ranch outside of Linden in Calaveras and San Joaquin County.

John attended Annunciation Catholic School of Stockton, graduated from Linden High School, and later continued his education at Delta College.

Following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, John began his career in ranching sheep and cattle. Later, he joined Schulz Bros. Trucking, working for his father-in-law, Ken Schulz, and Ken’s brother, Bob Schulz. Working alongside them, he helped diversify and

grow the company from a small hay-and-grain operation to include wood byproducts and garbage hauling, later becoming Schulz & Sons Trucking. In 2001, Tiger Lines purchased Schulz & Sons Trucking, where John continued to work with dedication up until his passing. His work was one of his many passions but the endless relationships he made along the way were unmatched. John never met a stranger, and his smile was the warmest and most welcoming to everyone he was around. He truly had a rare gift!

He was a hardworking and steadfast man whose life was defined by his commitment to family, his work, and the land he loved. Above all, John was devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie Ospital; his children Matthew (Roxann) Ospital and their children Jack, Hadley, and Blaine; Andrew Ospital; MaryBeth Ospital and Hannah Ospital. Together, they built a life on love, faith, and the values of honest work.

John will be remembered for the lasting impact he made on those who were fortunate enough to know him. The loss of such an incredible man will be felt by many. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the memories, values, and loved ones he leaves behind.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Franke Ospital.

The Mass will be held on Thursday, May 28 at 10:00am at the Cathedral of the Annunciation.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in memory of John Ospital.