Ernest Paul John

Thank you for all your love of life and Stories. I will cherish the 2000 Disney Parade we were in.you were so kind taking the time to tell me about your many years of clowning. JuJuBee

I love you for everything you gave us. You will be missed.

It was my pleasure to know Ruffles the clown. He competed at many clown conventions. Ernie John was a clown at heart. Princess, Bon Bon & Ruffles attended the C.O.A.I. clown convention in SouthPort England. Ruffles took his name from the incredible heavily starched ruffled collar that he wore around his neck. His collar is something to behold. Ernie John used to pick up the day old baked goods at the Vons on Adams Ave. and take them to a charity. Ernie "Ruffles" John has touched many...

The love I would share with my grandpa, Papa. It’s not everyday that a man comes into your life and changes it forever; many people if they’ve had such an experience, they would call it finding Jesus. I know, now that my Papa has, and I know that the lord is holding my Papa’s hand, and when he brings enough comfort to the man who changed my life, forever, peace will blanket him with the courage to accept what is the cycle of life; the perseverance to move on in his life. If there was ever a...

A Letter to Dad

Dad, you died on the last night of winter in the 'winter of your life'on a cold and rainy night surrounded by the warmth and love of your children. The one thing us kids had promised ourselves is that you wouldn' die alone.

It is said that hardships help us discover our inner strengths and resources. Well, Dad you worked so hard all of your life because you wanted your children to have an easier life than you. You were not well educated in the...

I was saddended to learn of the passing of "Ruffles the Clown." We crossed paths frequently in area Parades. He was in character as "Ruffles the Clown" and I in costume as "The Candyman." Before the Parades started we had time for some "serious" clown conversation. During those times we only knew each others clown names. But in reading the story of his life I found we had many work related discussions in the late 1950's. As part of his plumbing business,when a line was clogged or needed...

I am sorry to hear about your father's passing. I remember many happy times with your family on Crane Street.

I had the opportunity to participate in the celebration of Ruffles 90th Birthday (along with other members of the San Diego All Star Clown Club) Since I had heard so many wonderful things about him, I was thrilled to finally meet him.

Ruffles' family were all so kind to allow us to share this occassion with them. It was a FUN day that I will always remember. Since then, everyday as I drive on the 125 Fwy. just passed the 94 Fwy. I always wave hello to Ruffles.
I know he will...

Thoughts and prayers to Aunt Fran & family. I'll never forget the time I spent with Uncle Ernie & Aunt Fran back in 1985/1986 when I got to visit with them. Always looked forward to "Ruffles" visits to Boston and all of the balloon animals anyone could ever ask for!