John Lloyd Steinhauer

1925 - 2024

John Lloyd Steinhauer (Steinie)

November 27, 1925 - January 3, 2024

Fresno, California - In Loving Memory of John Lloyd Steinhauer (Steinie)

Easton (Fresno), CA - On Wednesday, January 3, John Lloyd Steinhauer, a man who lived a life filled with laughter, love, and an abundance of friends, peacefully passed away at the age of 98 at the California Veterans Home in Fresno, CA. Born on November 27, 1925, at the family ranch on American Avenue in Easton, John's journey was marked by resilience, service, and powerful love for his family.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Christina and John, sister Betty (Nedler), brothers Stanley and Gilbert (Buddy), wife Patricia, and daughter Jo Ellen. He is survived by his grateful children, Terri, Jeff (Lorie), Don (Nancy) Steinhauer, and his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish the impact he had on their lives.

Drafted into the Navy in January 1944, John proudly served in the Armed Guard with the Merchant Marines on the Tuolumne Meadows oil tanker, navigating to many places including Australia, India, Iran, New Guinea, and Panama. He later transitioned to a munitions ship, the SS Berea Victory, ensuring that Okinawa and the battles of Tinian and Saipan were well-equipped during the Asia-Pacific campaign. That's where John experienced the true meaning of life-altering battle. John's military service was an adventure that shaped his outlook on life. His remarkable service journey was later commemorated with a trip to Washington DC as part of the Central Valley Honor Flight program, giving him the opportunity to see the celebrated impacts of his service and share his naval experiences with others.

After the Navy, John's career path included time at local dairies, ranches, the US Corps of Army Engineers, Jensen & Pilegard, and a lengthy stint as a beloved route salesman for Langendorf and Dolly Madison bakeries, where he served the Central Valley for over 30 years. Not content with just one job, he managed to farm vineyard throughout his entire life while working full time.

In his spare time, John loved tinkering in his shop, motorcycling, bowling with his buddies and touching many young lives as a little league baseball coach. He was a dedicated mentor, living his life as an example for others to follow. He influenced generations with his wisdom, humor, and unconditional love.

Retirement brought a new set of adventures, as John immersed himself in Central Valley farm sales and the restoration and resale of old farm equipment. Yet, his true pride and joy emerged from beneath the grease and rust – a beautifully restored 1933 Ford Coupe that became a testament to his craftsmanship and dedication.

John's final chapter unfolded at the California Veterans Home in Fresno, where he received exceptional care from the compassionate teams in assisted living and skilled nursing. His infectious spirit and humor made him a favorite among the residents and staff. The family expresses their deepest gratitude for the unwavering support and love shown to this remarkable man.

Rather than somber tones, John's departure is marked with laughter, memories, and celebration, just as he would have wanted. His infectious spirit lives on in the countless hearts he touched, the memories he created, and the joy he brought to those fortunate enough to have known him. John Lloyd Steinhauer may have bid farewell to this world, but his spirit and joy for living will live on in others.

As a substitute for flowers and other gestures of love and support, the family would love for you to consider donations to the Central Valley Honor Flight program in honor of John's remarkable military service, or AseraCare Hospice of Fresno. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the echoes of the love and laughter he left behind.

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, January 9, at 11:00 a.m. at Washington Colony Cemetery in Easton, CA. Time to celebrate his life and reflect with friends and family will immediately follow at the C.P.D.E.S. Hall in Easton.