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John Foth Obituary
April 2, 1947 – June 14, 2025
John Robert Foth, 78, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, in Fountain Valley, California, surrounded by his family after a brief battle with cancer.
Born on April 2, 1947, in Osage, Iowa, to Robert and Laverne Foth. John grew up in Osage and enjoyed an idyllic childhood alongside his four beloved brothers. He graduated from Iowa State University in 1969 and soon after made his way to Southern California, where he would build both a family and a successful career.
In 1976, John married Caroline (Ricketts), and together they raised two children, Jennifer and Nathaniel. A dedicated and accomplished Civil Engineer, John had a successful 40+ year career-first with Caltrans, and later with Dominguez Water Corporation, which became Cal Water-where he was highly respected for his expertise, integrity, and work ethic.
Following his well-earned retirement in 2012, John enjoyed a full life. He spent his days golfing, caring for his cherished Shih Tzus, traveling to Iowa for treasured summer visits with his brothers, and enjoying time with his grandchildren.
John is survived by his wife of 49 years, Caroline; his daughter Jennifer and her husband Alec; his son Nathan; and his grandchildren Bradley, Drew, Alison, and Emily. He is also survived by his brothers Dennis (Noi), Dick (Stacey), and Don (Kim); sister-in-law, Joyce, sister-in-law, Pinky (Tony); his nieces and nephews, James Jr., Tony, Marilyn, Patricia, Angela, Eric, April, Brian, Justin, Tyler and Tracy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Laverne, and his eldest brother, Jim.
John will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 1st, at 12:00 p.m. at Mile Square Golf Course in Fountain Valley, California, where family and friends will gather to honor and remember a life well lived.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Pinky
August 1, 2025
Missing u John. Im sure u are playing golf!
Kay Rivers
July 27, 2025
Kay Rivers donated a tree in memory of John Foth. My prayers goes out to your family and loved ones. It was a pleasure having you as my manager. God Bless,
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Larry Klemesrud
July 6, 2025
My deepest sympathy to the Foth family I had the privilege to have gone to school and graduated with John. I will never forget when we were playing Northwood and John broke our scoreboard when he kicked another extra point. The scoreboard on went to 59 and when made the extra point the score was 60 - 0 in Osage´s favor. God Bless to ALL.
Ron and Kris Markham
July 6, 2025
Our deepest sympathy to John´s family.
Gary Steigh
June 29, 2025
John and I spent almost every Sunday for the last fifteen years together at Miles Square Golf Course. John was not just a friend; he was a devoted family man whose greatest joy came from talking about his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren. The sparkle in his eyes when he spoke of them was a testament to his deep love and pride.
John had a love affair with the game of golf and he was very good at his game. John was a detail-oriented engineer, a master of his craft who approached life with the same precision he applied to his work. One of his most innovative contributions to the game of golf was his "Volcano Cup" repair board. Just like John himself, it was practical and creative, making the game a little better for everyone who played. It was not easy to upset John, but slow play could get him slightly exercised.
John was not just a golfer or an engineer, he was a great guy with a big heart, always ready to lend a hand or share a laugh. John, you will be deeply missed, but you legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew you. Thank you for everything. Rest in peace, dear friend.
Gary Steigh
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