Johnny J. Mandrelle

Johnny J. Mandrelle passed from life on June 13, 2010 after a short battle with cancer. He is now resting in the loving eternal arms of Jesus who he got very close to in his last months.

He was born on January 22, 1957 in East St. Louis, MO. His parents later moved to Maywood, CA where he lived as a child. His parents moved to Porterville in the 1960's where he resided the rest of his life. He graduated from Porterville High School in 1975 and attended some college in Porterville. He was active in track and held the long jump record at Porterville High. He later joined the Marines and was honorably discharged after a short stint.

When he returned to Porterville he worked at Mongomery Wards as a display manager until acquiring his job at Waterman Industries as a mechanical draftsman. He truly loved drafting and worked there for 18 years. He later worked for one year at Hillman Building Designs which was his true passion, designing houses. His health forced him to retire soon after that.

He met Lily Sayen and they married in 1983. They had one son, Christopher M. Mandrelle. His previous marriage to Peggy Richmond produced a son, Michael J. Mandrelle.

John could always be found watching his NASCAR races, especially rooting for Jeff Gordon. He loved old TV shows: Bonanza, Bill Cosby and Three's Company. He loved the ocean, especially Cayucos. He traveled there many times and developed friends there. He was a shy man, but one who was old fashioned and loyal. A man of few words at times, but the ones he spoke meant something.

His wife and sons meant everything to him, as family was so important. He loved camping, deer hunting and fishing. His family pets always put smiles on his face.

He is survived by his wife, Lily T. Mandrelle of Porterville, sons; Michael J. Mandrelle and Christopher Mandrelle both of Porterville. Grandsons; Christopher, Michael, Isaiah and Zachariah Mandrelle all of Porterville and granddaughter Karissa Hall of Exeter, CA. His siblings; Jody Mandrelle and Leo Seniff of Flint, MI, and Bobby Mandrelle of MA, sisters; Carloyn Dayton and Dottie Sawson both of Flint, MI, Norma Berry of Marion, IL, Johnna Lippman of MA and Patsy Krygowski of Jackson, MI.

Deceased before him were his parents; Joseph and Mary Mandrelle, sister Frankie Gillett and brother Jackie Mandrelle.

Visitation will be Wednesday, June 16, 2010 at Myers Funeral Service from 2:00 to 7:00 pm.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, June 17, 2010 at 10:00 am at Hillcrest memorial Park in Porterville.