JOACHIM "BIG JOHN" HAEDRICH

Years ago while on vacation we stumbled upon Big John's wonderful business in Carlsbad. I am the son of German Immigrants. My father and mother founded Hess Bakery and Deli, Lakewood, Wa. I was immediately home as I walked thru the store and restaurant. We purchased items and had dinner. It was marvelous. 2 years later we vacationed near Carlsbad and I took my son back to have Rouladen dinner. That was when I got to meet this marvelous gentleman. I remember how his huge hands made mine feel...

Was in San Diego today and hoped to stop in and grab some sausage for the drive back up to Ventura. Knew John since the 80´s. Back then worked with Fritz Thaller at Alpena Sausage. We produced a wide range of European sausages and meats. I got to know John over the years. Very intimidating at first, but as I got to know him, a wonderful man. When working with Alpena and San Diego I always made a point to have lunch and often he would come and sit with me and chat. He is an icon and as I...

First time I came to his restaurant in 2007 when my husband took me to Tip Top restaurant. I was homesick and craving kohlrouladen or liver and onion. It was so good it was like I wish I could have eat it everytime. So I met him first time when he was working to serve at the counter. He was big tall guy I would say a gentle giant. Friendly smile and he used to come for buffet at my work almost every weekends. It was sad to know he passed January this year when I read the local newspaper....

He contributed so much to our community! His butcher shop had ONLY the BEST meat! I loved seeing him behind the counter. May your memory be a blessing!

Mr. Haedrich, Big John, purchased at the Del Mar Fair animals raised by 4-Hers. This support of 4-H youth in San Diego County is just one of the many youth and community programs he generously supported. Linda Fornelli, Carlsbad

John was my first boss at Tip Top in Glendale in 1976. He was such a great guy, and I was so happy to visit him a few years ago at the Tip Top in Carlsbad. May he rest in peace. Sending condolences to his family and friends.

Our sincere condolences to the family. Been a loyal customer of Tip Top Meats for years. Hershy Tip Top Meats customer

So great to learn from the best butcher from the old country. Tip Top will remain a great landmark. Such great memories working with the crew that I will never forget. Big John will be missed.

Big John was bigger than life, such a great person with a big heart! I´ve known John since 1967 as his accountant. He was such a joy to work with, I always looked forward to our meetings. We shared a love for the horse races and we would make sure when we got together for business we would save time to catch 9 races either at Santa Anita or Del Mar. Although I have not seen Big John much since I retired I think of him all the time, what a gentle giant!