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John Darrough Obituary
May 16, 1927-May 9, 2013
Resident of Capitola
Jack Darrough left the station for the last time at 10:30am on May 9, 2013. He journeyed in life alongside Pat, his loving wife of 35 years. He effortlessly gave everyone his love, respect, and friendship. His presence filled any room, and his warmth and enthusiasm couldn't help but inspire all those around him.
Jack was born in San Mateo, the third son to Leo Thaddeus and Rose McGarr Darrough. A railroad family, his father and eldest brother Charles worked for over 50 years for the Southern Pacific, and his brother William was a famous railroad photographer. Prior to working on the railroad, Jack attended high school at Bellarmine College Preparatory and college at San Jose State.
In his youth he had a series of odd jobs: civil defense bike messenger, worked in a cannery in the pie and fruit cocktail line, drove a garbage truck, was a witness for marriages at San Jose City Hall, served in the National Guard, and was a radio DJ known as "Johnny Garr".
Like his father and his brothers, Jack became a railroader. He worked for many years on the Southern Pacific and Western Pacific railroads as a handler, ticket clerk, and brakeman. After the railroad, Jack sold printing to hospitals for K/P graphics. In his retirement, Jack drove a truck for Orion Telescopes and served 17 years on the board of the Central Fire District.
Jack built a home that was caring, loving, and full of people and laughter. His colorful personality and dedication to his family were the defining characteristics of a man that was a friend to everyone. He was a man of inexhaustible curiosity, larger-than-life friendliness, and delicious pancakes.
Jack's train of family include his "mama girl" Pat Darrough, and his sons Rick "P.D.", Kevin "Apples", David "Study", Marty "Aloysius", Kenny "Kenner"; and his daughter Debra "Debbis". He was extremely proud of his loving grandchildren Katie, Megan, Aaron, Wil, Jennifer, Kelsey, Alex, Ryan, and TJ. Many more became part of the family as sons, daughters, grandsons, granddaughters, friends, and neighbors - all welcomed in with a huge smile and a hearty, bellowing laugh.
A special thanks to the Hospice of Santa Cruz County for their care and compassion.
Mass will be held at the Resurrection Catholic Church in Aptos, CA on Thursday, May 23 at 10am.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Darrough
Richard Dunn
June 9, 2013
While I did not know Jack well, I had the opportunity to meet with him in Capitola several times and talk about railroads and the wonderful photographic negative collection that his late brother Bill had collected. Jack you will be missed by many.
Karin Olson/Wingfield
May 22, 2013
I'll always have great memories of that friendly voice and funny words...he truly did light up a room with laughter when he was around...you will be missed!
Roy and Jan Haile
May 17, 2013
You were one of the BEST Jack....you will be missed by many....rest in peace my friend
May 16, 2013
Papa Jack was a wonderful man with a wonderful family. I am best friends with his granddaughter Katie, so I've had the privilage of knowing Jack along with his loving family for a long time. He will be truely missed. He was just the best! -Rebecca
jake Harvey
May 15, 2013
I had the honor and privilege to work with Jack for 23 years at KP Graphics. I greatly appreciated Jack's loyalty, work ethic and friendship over the years, Jack was the best.
Jess Weitz
May 15, 2013
Wonderful to get a glimpse of someone so important to Jenn, Kathy, and David Bevard. We are sorry to have not met him...with love from Vermont.
Roberta Morris Corso
May 15, 2013
I was so sad to hear that our wonderful Jack has passed. He was my mentor at KP Graphics and taught me so much about printing and life. He was always there to support me and gave me the courage to lead. I am happy I was able to speak to him just a few weeks ago and will miss our occasional phone calls. Rest in Peace Cara maith.
With Love, Roberta and Frank Corso
Stan Jefferson
May 14, 2013
Jack was a great guy. Our mutual love of railroads was always a talking point when we got together. I gave Jack a Western Pacific sign years ago--which ended up on the carport deck! Condolences to the family.
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