John Magliari

October 1, 1932 - October 8, 2025 John Magliari, of Costa Mesa, Calif., passed away Oct. 8, 2025, at age 93. He was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend. He had many interests, not least of which was looking after his loved ones, generously sharing his time, wisdom and more.
John was born Oct. 1, 1932, to an Italian immigrant family in Central Los Angeles. His father Fortunato (Fred) Magliari worked in a factory while mother Jennie Tecca Magliari was a home-maker. John's youth was filled with urban adventures: hopping freight trains at the rail yard, watching matinees at the Central Avenue movie palace, taking the bus to shop at Grand Central Market and riding the Red Cars to Venice Beach for family outings. He was a hard worker, both at home where chores were significant and mandatory and at nonstop jobs starting in his teens, such as stocking produce at grocery stores to earn spending money. He attended George Washington High School, where he played football, served as class president and began dating his future bride, Carolyn Harris. John set his sights on attending UCLA, and earned his B.A. in political science in 1954.
That same year, John and Carolyn wed, beginning 54 years of marriage in which they raised four children, their greatest priority and pleasure. Also in 1954, John began his career at State Compensation Insurance Fund, starting as a claims adjuster and moving up through sales, personnel and supervisory roles to become a district manager overseeing offices in Inglewood, Culver City and ultimately Cerritos. He enjoyed his work, the management he served with and the people on his staff. As he told his children and grandchildren many times, "Find a job and career that you would love, and you will never work a day in your life."
John and Carolyn bought their first home in the San Gabriel Valley, and then in 1970, moved to Costa Mesa. In 1994, John retired from the Fund, but he continued to treasure the friendships he forged. During his 30 years in retirement, he kept active and independent to the end. His biggest focus was on his family. He'll be dearly missed.
John was preceded in death by his wife Carolyn and his son John Scott. He is survived by his son David (wife Jan), his daughter Susan Warfel, his son Daniel (wife Gloria), and John Scott's wife Jackie. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, Nov. 18, from 3 to 6 p.m. with vigil service at 4:30 at Westminster Memorial Park's Lakeside Chapel, 14801 Beach Blvd., Westminster, CA, 92683. Funeral service and mass will be held Wednesday, Nov. 19, starting at noon at St. Barbara Catholic Church, 730 S. Euclid St., Santa Ana, CA, 92704, followed by graveside service at Westminster Memorial Park.