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BORN
1949
DIED
2016
JOHN FINNELL Obituary
John A. Finnell, 66, of San Diego, passed away peacefully January 14, 2016 after a lengthy illness. John was born January 27, 1949, in Pasadena, CA, John graduated from Brawley Union High School in 1967 and served in the U.S. Army in Co. C, 1/16, 1st Infantry Division and Co. D, 2/27, 25th Infantry Division. He was awarded the Purple Heart, two Bronze Stars, Expert Shooting Badge with Rifle Device, and other medals, devices and items. After 34 years working for the U.S. Postal Service, John volunteered as a safety captain on the U.S.S. Midway and was an active member of ACVOW (American Combat Veterans of War). He was preceded in death by his parents, Homer Finnell and Marilyn Laughrin. Surviving family members include his wife, Julie Demski Finnell; son, Cory (Adrienne) Finnell; stepfather, Richard Laughrin; siblings, Scott (Kim) Finnell, Joyce (Bob) Chronister, Laurie (Jim) Halfpenny, Debbie Laughrin, and Dan Laughrin; granddaughters, Taylor and Avery Finnell; cousins, Mark (Lorie) Constable, Kent (Karen) Constable and numerous nephews and nieces. A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., Sunday, January 31, at Il Fornaio restaurant on Coronado Island (619-437-4911). In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Vietnam Veterans of America (http:// www.vva.org/support.html). To post comments or condolences for the family, please visit: http:// obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for JOHN FINNELL
Nicole Walsh
April 1, 2016
Julie, I cannot say I understand exactly how difficult this has to be for you, as I haven't walked in your shoes. I imagine it has to be one of the most difficult events to face in life- losing the one closest to you- the one you love. "They say" it gets easier with time.. Yes, I imagine time heals the pain in our heart. Some days will be better than others. Some hours will be better than others.
I know that you have so many memories of your years together with John. Those, time will never take away. I adore your family. So though I did not meet him, I know he must have been just as great as everyone in your family that I have met and spend time with.
I'm so sorry for this loss Julie.
Patrick Carraher
January 31, 2016
So sorry to hear about John's passing, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
virgil fontenot
January 23, 2016
I've known John for over 40 years and we shared so much together, Charger games, Aztec games, and Padre games along with our occasional trips to Vegas. Happiness and Heartaches, through it all I've never met a more quality and more loving Man. I loved John like a brother and will miss him.
Rest in Peace my Brother and may your Higher Power receive you!
Virgil & Shiela Fontenot
Steven Young
January 23, 2016
God bless John and his family
Nancy Lynn Schmidt
January 21, 2016
John and I worked together as members of ACVOW and those times will always be special memories in my heart. I am sorry I didn't get to say good bye So, good bye John you will be missed. Nancy
David Pelkey
January 20, 2016
I liked John and I am very sad to hear of his passing. John, may God bless you and keep you in His care!
Rick Salde
January 20, 2016
Rest in the hands of the LORD my brother warrior!! YOU'LL BE MISS BY ALL YOUR BROTHERS!! (ACVOW) YOUR FAMILY WILL BE IN OUR PRAYERS ALONG WITH ALL YOUR FRIENDS. RICK SALDE
Dana Rose
January 20, 2016
Oh my! I am so sad to hear this! John was my mush beloved mailman down in the Gaslamp. We remained friends over the years.
He was a wonderful person, kind, caring, friendly. I will miss him.
Ernie D'Leon
January 20, 2016
He called me about a year ago via Iphone. His son had shown him how to do it. He was elated and excited. He was my "bother-in-arms. I'll miss him.
Paul DEGARIE
January 20, 2016
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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