JOHN M. DULLEA

DULLEA, JOHN M. 1974 to 2010 John Dullea never liked the term "Down's Syndrome." He was an equal, fully loved member of our family and of the community, and knew it. He would do anything in the world for those who asked, provided the request was asked with love, an arm around the shoulder, and he knew the goal and purpose. John was born June, 23, 1974, a birthday he proudly shared with his grandma, Carol Hartpence, with whom he would plan their celebration all year long. Over the last 10 years John battled various pneumonias, and this past year, H1N1 and MRSA. He survived three lengthy stays in the ICU's of Mercy Hospital, San Diego and Chula Vista; and in rehab, most recently at Vibra Hospital. He received wonderful care. John demonstrated his great heart and strength in defeating the odds against him with great determination, each and every time. On Friday, February 5th, John passed away at home, surrounded by the love of his family, from another onset of pneumonia. He was loved for his great impish humor, his love of life, family, for America, and in cheering the Padres and Chargers. John had deep faith in God and inspired us with his humility. He loved both the St. Rose and Corpus Christi parishes. He is a graduate of the Special Ed program at Bonita Vista High and worked at Starlight Center, Chula Vista and St. Madeline Sophie's Center, El Cajon. He had moved a year ago into Home of Guiding Hands, Windmill House, and found friendships and success in his greater independence. John is survived by his mother and dad, Angela and Michael Dullea, Sr; his brothers Michael Jr. and wife Michelle and nephew Michael, Matthew and wife Kyla, and nephew Jack, and David and wife Kristina, and nephew Nathan; his grandparents John and Carol Hartpence; and grandmother, Mary Dullea, and uncle, Dennis Dullea, in Illinois. John's viewing will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 10, 2010, with Memorial Services and Rosary at 6 p.m. at Community Mortuary, 855 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91911, 619-426-2000. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, February 11, 2010, and will be celebrated by the Rev. Michael Sinor at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 450 Corral Canyon Road, Bonita, CA 91908; 619-482-3954. Interment at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery and Mausoleum, San Diego. In lieu of flowers, donations are encouraged in John's memory to Home of Guiding Hands, to St. Madeline Sophie's Center, to Noah's Ark Angel Foundation. Arrangements are being handled by Community Mortuary, Chula Vista, 619-426-2006.