John Damian Voelker

VOELKER, John Damian - August 3, 1956 - December 4, 2005 John Voelker, beloved son (Jack and Peg, deceased); brother of Denise (David) Lewis, Lisa (Ed) Walera, Joe (Tammy) Voelker and Mark (Wanda) Voelker; uncle to Thomas, Adrienne, Rachel, Michelle, Missy, Joey, Kate, Coleman and Kylie; nephew and cousin to (too many to list) and friend to thousands, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2005 at the Coming Home Hospice in San Francisco. John was a fourth-generation San Franciscan - a true native son. He graduated from Riordan High School in 1974 and joined the San Francisco Fire Department in 1978. A legend in his own time and perhaps the funniest person we've ever known, Johnnie left lasting impressions wherever he went with his sharp wit and wonderful smile. He touched us all and amassed friends around the world. John was affectionately known as the "Toy King" after he resurrected, expanded and successfully operated the San Francisco Firefighters Toy Program for many years. Children who would otherwise have gone without, celebrated Christmas in style thanks to the efforts of Johnnie V. John became involved with the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation raising money to help young burn victims enjoy an uninhibited summer camp experience at their "Champ Camp" in the Sierras. He spent several weeks each summer at Champ Camp working hands-on to give the kids a real "Johnnie V." experience. John helped organize the Barbary Coast chapter of the Wind and Fire Motorcycle Club, an international organization of firefighters. John organized various motorcycle fun runs and events in order to raise money for the club's chosen charity: the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation. John was the first recipient of the San Francisco Citizens Medal of Valor. Awarded to him by then Mayor, Dianne Feinstein. Throughout his life, he continued to receive awards and recognition for public service. In every way, Johnnie was larger than life. His exploits were legendary. Stop into a firehouse anywhere in the country and tell them you're from San Francisco. The response will inevitably be, "do you know Johnnie V.?" When you were with him, you were having a good time. He was a wonderful son, brother, cousin, firefighter and friend. Thank you for the love and the laughs, Johnnie. We will never forget you. Friends may visit Friday after 6pm and are invited to the Vigil Service 7pm and Funeral Mass Saturday, 10am, ALL at St. Monica Church, 23rd and Geary, SF. Donations may be made to the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation. The family also requests new, unwrapped toys be brought to the Vigil or Funeral Mass.