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John DeMaria Obituary
John J. De Maria
Resident of San Jose
Left us on Saturday, December 18, 2010 while at the Plum Tree Care Center after a short fight with lung cancer. He had just celebrated his 94th birthday with family and friends. Born in San Jose, California, November 22, 1916 to Augastino (Gus) and Ginseppa (Josephine) Di Maria.
As a youth he played the harmonica on the street corner for extra cash. With that money he bought a violin and taught himself how to play. Quickly, he took on several more instruments including the marching drum, clarinet and mandolin. As a young man he composed music, formed and led a big band orchestra.
He served as a CPO for 6 years in WWII and was very proud of his service in the Navy.
He was married to Mary, the love of his life for 55 years and raised a son, Timothy, and daughter, Deborah. John retired from his "day job" as VP at the Bank of America after 30+ years of service in 1971 but continued with his true passion, MUSIC! He would say "it's hard to believe that people pay me for doing something I would do for free."
As VP of the local Musicians Union in San Jose he was a professional guitarist who traveled and performed with fellow musicians, forming the "Jolly Corkers" musical group. John played in numerous clubs throughout San Jose. He taught guitar lessons at music stores and at home. His guitars were his prized possessions, particularly his Gibson guitar and Fender Stratocaster which filled the family home with music.
When his fingers became too arthritic to play the guitar he taught himself how to play the piano. Practicing several hours a day and entertaining nightly during dinner for the Senior Living Atrium where he lived until September 2010.
John is survived by his daughter Deborah and son-in law Bruce Goddard, grandsons Kyle Goddard and Casey Zolezzi (Michelle) and great grandson Anthony, sisters Mary and Josephine and many dear relatives and friends.
John will rest in peace next to his loving wife at the Stanislaus National Cemetery.
The musician may be gone but his MUSIC PLAYS ON!
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John DeMaria
Rob Zolezzi
January 20, 2011
John, you were one of the most amazing men I ever met. You do not have a bad bone in your body. You brought a smile to every person you came in contact with. Thank you for your friendship, I will always cherish it.
Barb MacNeil
January 18, 2011
You will be greatly missed at The Atrium and senior center. I always liked teasing with you and discussing "old" San Jose. No doubt you have joined the heavenly music as you now play for the Lord.
Nazario Ochoa
January 3, 2011
Hey John this is your buddy Naz From the Atrium It was an honor to meet you and you will be missed God bless you John and Rest In Peace..
Thomas Alpers
January 1, 2011
I am a local EMT who had the pleasure of transporting John to and from the hospital over the last two months. Wow what a man and what a spirit! It was a pleasure knowing him for the short time I was allowed. I wish I would have met him YEARS earlier. I spent a time in prayer with John on friday. Thank you for the opportunity to pray with you John! Ill see you again and await the opportinty to hear you play all of the beautiful music you play!
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December 28, 2010
I worked with John at BofA Phelan Monterey Hwy branch.
Professionally he was my supervisor but personally he was a friend.
His humor and kindness will be missed.
Jackie Costanza
Neidel Allstate Insurance
December 28, 2010
I remember when he called our office and he would tell me stories about his days traveling. It was a pleasure speaking with him. My condolences.
Josephine DeMaria Lawrence
December 28, 2010
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
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