John and Marylou Ihrig

John was born in Iowa City, Iowa. During his childhood he and his family moved frequently. He moved to Bakersfield in 1980. John and Marylou met at the St. Philip Church Singles and Divorced Group in 1983. He worked as a printer for Hall Letter Shop until his retirement in 2009. John was a member of St. Joseph's Choir ensemble for many years playing percussion and the mandolin. John died after a lengthy battle with lung cancer with Marylou at his side, faithfully taking care of him until she fell ill just before his death in October of 2014. As a loving father and grandfather, he is survived by his sons Michael (Lauren), Anthony (Sarah), daughter Teresa Villasenor (Efren), and grandchildren Quinn, Eloise, Josephine, and birth granddaughter Elizabeth Kinstle.

Marylou was born and raised in Bakersfield, CA. She attended Bakersfield High School and later attended Bakersfield College. Marylou worked as a medical assistant for Dr. B.G. Stewart for many years until his retirement. She was also an active member of the St. Francis Choir and the Sunday Day Care Program. She was a Type 1 diabetic for forty-two years. In October 2014, while taking care of her husband, she became seriously ill. For the past year and a half she fought this disease always remaining upbeat and with a smile on her face until she could fight no more. She succumbed to complications from diabetes on May 12, 2016 with her family by her side. She was a loving sister, mother and grandmother and is survived by her daughters Laurie Ketchem and Teresa Villasenor, sisters Celia Eddy and Barbara Betti, brother Joey Foster and grandchildren Blake Ketchem, Gray Ketchem, Kaden Ketchem and birthgranddaughter Elizabeth Kinstle.

Many thanks to those who cared for Marylou at Life House on Real Road, and to her many doctors who worked so hard to care for her.

John and Marylou were a loving couple, friends to all, and giving of their time to those in need. We will always remember the family get togethers and dinners at their home, especially the 4th. of July Extravaganzas. They will remain in our hearts forever.

A Graveside Service for John and Marylou will be held Friday, May 27, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at Union Cemetery.

DOUGHTY-CALHOUN-O'MEARA