John Louis Eelsing

John Louis Eelsing May 6, 1938 - July 1, 2013 Lifelong Resident of his beloved Alameda Loving husband and father, taken from us too young. As a fellow master carpenter, the Lord called him home at the age of 75 to help Him put the finishing touches on the mansions being prepared for us in Heaven, knowing that with John's help the job would be done right. John was proud to be a member of the Carpenters Union for 43 years. (He always said it was also Jesus' profession.) Twenty-five of those years were spent at Kaiser Hospitals in Oakland and Hayward, where he took great pride, and was a perfectionist, in all his work. John is survived by his loving wife, Karen, and his loving daughter, Kristin. He also leaves behind sister in law Diane Snyder (husband Paul), sister in law Cindy Long, brother in law Dennis Craig (wife Sylvia), adored cat, Adrianna, and numerous other extended family, including cousin Robert Eelsing of Truckee, who was like a brother. He also leaves behind many, treasured friends; several of whom have been life-long. John was preceded in death by his beloved mother Jacqueline Selvey, his father Louis Eelsing, and his half brother, Raymond Eelsing. John loved his years at Alameda High, graduating in 1956. He remembered everything about those cherished years like they just happened yesterday, and though he suffered a massive stroke 3 years ago, communication with him was never a problem. Visiting family and friends were always able to reminisce about those times, even though some of them had long since forgotten. He loved to reminisce. After high school, John served in the Air National Guard. John was a lover of many things in life, and lived life to its fullest. He loved traveling with his wife Karen, going on cruises, trips to Europe-especially to Holland to visit relatives Boelem Eelsing (now deceased) and wife Jeannette. They also loved vacations in Tahoe and Coronado. He and Karen enjoyed 30 years of belonging to NCCA, Northern California Corvette Association, with whom they toured their '68 Corvette convertible. He had many interests and hobbies, and loved car shows where he would show his prized black and white '56 Chevy, that he lovingly built from a shell to ultimately a show car over several years, winning 1st place in its class at the Oakland Roadster Show in 1990. It was one of the big joys in his life. He also loved music, especially Jazz at Filoli, where he and Karen went to the concert series every summer for 13 years. He loved NASCAR and anything else related to fast cars. He also loved his Harley Davidson on which he and Karen also shared some great trips. A die-hard Raider fan. John was a true and devoted friend to many; he was loyal, honest and generous. He had a vibrant personality and a fabulous sense of humor and wit, and had a smile that could light up Time Square. He was also known for his street-smart wisdom. Though described by many women as "movie star handsome," he was also a true mans' man. He will be greatly missed by his family and his many friends. Several months ago John was also diagnosed with congestive heart failure, from which he never recovered. He was the bravest man you would ever meet, and though he suffered greatly over the past 3 years, he rarely complained. After his stroke 3 years ago he resided at Bay View Nursing and Rehab in Alameda, where he had some wonderful caregivers. Now my dear husband, there is no more pain, nor suffering, your tears have been wiped away, and you are now finally at peace in the presence of our Lord. We'll remember you for the smile on your face, and the laughter in your soul. John's ashes will be interred at the Chapel of the Chimes in Oakland, where he and his beloved wife Karen were married 49 years ago. Unfortunately, he passed 1 month before their Golden wedding anniversary. Per John's request, no services will be held. Donations in John's memory may be made to your favorite charity.