Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
John Kalamaras Obituary
The beloved artist died in Los Angeles on August 23 at the age of 86.
John's artistic talent was nurtured in Vallejo schools, but it was his athleticism that was most evident at an early age. He attended UC Berkeley on a baseball scholarship where he also played football and rugby.
At Cal, John's academics flourished and he earned an MA in Educational Psychology and cultivated his artistic abilities. After several years teaching art and coaching sports in Richmond area schools, he headed overseas to teach art near Paris later enrolling at Beaux-Arts. Returning to the US in 1965 he earned an MFA at Cal and began the most productive and formative part of his career: acrylics on large canvasses. With exhibits in Canada, Europe, and the US, along with sales to private collectors, John established his place within the era of Diebenkorn, Thiebaud, Bischoff, Park, and others pushing hard edge acrylics beyond surrealism.
John leaves behind his sister, Katherine Legarra, his extraordinary circle of LA friends, many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by longtime partner Sherle North, siblings Anthony, Gus, George, Peter, and Stella White-Smith.
Celebrations of his life will be announced when COVID restrictions are less rigid and allow such opportunities.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Kalamaras
5 Entries
Louis ArtTitude Ayala
April 9, 2024
I was introduced to John Kalamaras through a mutual friendship Mr Taylor whom alike John both impacted the lives of many people , allow me to explained my name is Louis Ayala I'm from the East Los Angeles with a rough upcoming history an a high school drop out due to social determinants and when someone who's insecurities with education are met with the simplicity of a true teacher who possess a what the Terminology if my own property of authorship it is John Kalamaras who's ARTISTIC ATTITUDE to paint the education , paint over insecurities and inspire to be more alike the selfish individuality we as artist seldom share when in this world living in the same time .
JOHN promised me a favor after helping him with locating a family member in the example of how Mr taylor matches people to assist where they struggle . The opportunity to help you was your debt paid in full as I know the importance to pay all debts and leave a positive legacy..
Very yours truly Louis C ArtTitude Ayala . Banning CA.
Thanks to life sentences will meet again good old friend of friends . Rest in peace .
Kathleen Legarra
October 1, 2021
John was my husband's uncle. He welcomed me into the Kalamaras family with open arms. He was a really sweet guy.
michael rodriguez
September 15, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Hub Braden
September 7, 2020
MEMORIES in the early 1950’s John Kalamaras, with Greek Heritage, while attending Vallejo High School, was a handsome young outstanding athlete in the high school’s athletic sports programs football, track and baseball The high school’s mascot name was “The Apache” - designating the sport teams as “The Apaches” Remaining in Vallejo after his graduation in June, receiving his Senior High School diploma, the following September, John continued his education, enrolled in the Solano County Junior College study program. Solans County Junior College shared the same facilities, classrooms and campus with the Vallejo High School. In Junior College, John continued participating in the Solano County Junior College’s athletic sport programs. Enrolling at the University of California Berkeley, John participated in the UC Berkeley athletic’s programs, becoming an official Berkeley Blue and Gold “BEAR” !!!
Simone Taylor
September 6, 2020
No one can prepare you for a loss; it comes like a swift wind. However, take comfort in knowing God is with you and your family lean on him in your time of need & remember,
Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results
Make a Donation
in John Kalamaras's name
Memorial Events
for John Kalamaras
How to support John's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor John Kalamaras's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
