John Grasham

1920 - 2021

John Arthur Grasham

Born September 6, 1920 in Phoenix, Arizona and passed away June 30, 2021. He graduated from Arizona State University, served in the Navy during WWII, and subsequently received his PhD from USC in Speech. John's vibrant career included announcing radio in Arizona and Los Angeles, teaching (USC 1947-1948; LA City College 1948-1957) and college administration, (Harbor Junior College, Dean of Instruction 1958-1966; Southwest Junior College, President 1967-1969). John's career culminated in Marin County as Superintendent/President, College of Marin (1970-1974) and as Superintendent of the Marin Community College District (1974-1978). He was honored to accept a Fulbright Grant from 1962-1963 enabling a move for his family to Italy where he taught English at the University of Trieste.
John had a rich life filled with family, friends, community service, church and work. He served as president of the local chapters of the California Retired Teachers Association, Rotary and the International Brotherhood of Magicians. He also served on the boards of Marin General Hospital and the SF Bay Area and Marin County American Red Cross, and acted as Trustee and Vice-Chair for the Bay Area United Way. He was an active member of the Aldersgate United Methodist Church for 50 years. John was also an avid bridge player, amateur photographer, and co-authored a book on speech which was used in colleges for 24 years. Over the years he pursued his passion for travel and had fond memories of visits to over 90 countries which he shared through many community travelogue presentations.
He was pre-deceased in 2004 by his wife of 57 years, Elizabeth, and is survived by his five children: James Grasham, John E. Grasham, Neale Grasham, Margaret Kimble Mitchel and Mary Fischer; ten grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
John will be missed for his quiet leadership and service to the community, generous and positive spirit, hard work and humor.
A Memorial Service (masks required) will be held Sunday, July 11th at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Terra Linda at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to the Aldersgate Church or a charity of choice.