John Joseph Castellanos

October 31, 1949 - November 5, 2016

John was born to loving parents Jose Juan and Lucille Castellanos in Stockton, California. He is the second of six siblings, who all experienced the sad loss of their father at an early age and whose memory brought them closer as family. John lived the values and beliefs of his parents, especially his beloved mother. He was a devoted son and loving brother and loyal to many friends. His parents Joe and Lucy precede John in death. He leaves behind a daughter and son-in-law, Sara and Carlos Cortez, two granddaughters, Luz and Sofia, who will miss Papa very much. He shared grand parenting duties with Sara’s mother Marcie and her spouse Walt Scherer. He leaves behind his partner and wife Lisa, and son Zachary and stepson Michael Wood. He is also survived by loving brothers and sisters Stephan (Linda Derivi), Christine, Susan Gonyo (Bill), David (Sharon) and Catherine (Kevin Heverin) and numerous nieces and nephews, including Gian and Anna Derivi-Castellanos, Allyson and Kevin Gonyo, Joshua and Emma Castellanos-Rose, and Miles and Gabriel Heverin. John spent his young years in Stockton, attending local schools. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School, attended San Joaquin Delta College and enlisted in the US Army. Upon his return from military service he completed his undergraduate program at Sacramento State College. He then expressed an interest in the law, and graduated from Lincoln Law School. Going on to practice law in Sacramento, he moved to South Lake Tahoe where he practiced for many years. He was highly respected by the legal community. John was an avid golfer. John believed in making the world a better place, in helping people and in the importance of family and friends. He strongly believed in the power of hope and love. Johnny, we will miss you. Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 PM on Wednesday, November 16, 2016 at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church located at 1041 Lyons Drive, South Lake Tahoe. To share any memories or photos of John please go to www.Legacy.com. In addition, the family asks that remembrances be made to the American Heart Association.