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John Thomas Lamendella

1939 - 2016

John Thomas Lamendella

1939 - 2016

Obituary

Guest Book

BORN

1939

DIED

2016

About

University of Michigan

John Lamendella Obituary

Published by Santa Cruz Sentinel on Mar. 27, 2016.

John Thomas Lamendella
November 10, 1939 – March 22, 2016
Resident of Corralitos
Beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, John T. Lamendella passed away on March 22, leaving a rich legacy of memories for those who knew and loved him.
John was born and raised on the Northside of Chicago, the middle son of Joseph and Felicia Lamendella. After serving in the army and earning a Doctorate in Linguistics from the University of Michigan, John and his first wife Rita moved to the west coast, where he happily lived out his days. A professor for 30 years, a poet, philosopher, gardener, scientist, storyteller, and craftsman, John was admired by many. He is survived by his son Somesh Lamendella and partner Olchi Skant, his daughter Amy Lamendella and partner James Kovacs, his daughter Jessica Lamendella and partner Matthew Harding, his sister and brother-in-law Justine and Bob Bykowski, his ex-wives Rita Lamendella and Denise Bissonnette, his nieces and nephews, and his three grandchildren Dimitri, Andre, and Anika. Donations made be made to the Santa Cruz Homeless Garden Project. For more information go to www.pacificgardenschapel.com.

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Recent Activity

January 1, 2020

Celine Grenier posted to the memorial.

February 22, 2019

STANLEY MURAI posted to the memorial.

March 29, 2016

Brandon Owens posted to the memorial.

4 Entries

Celine Grenier

January 1, 2020

John was a fabulous teacher because he not only knew his subject but also let his lectures branch out into his other passions, all of which were fascinating. He was at least half of my inspiration as a teacher, and I am very sad to learn that we've lost him. The world need much more of the kind of human energy he exuded.

STANLEY MURAI

February 22, 2019

John was one of my favorite teachers. I always enjoyed his talks and lectures. And he encouraged my interest in linguistics so that I finished a graduate degree under him and for a time pursued a career in the field. I wish I could have seen him one more time at this late date. My condolences to his family.

Brandon Owens

March 29, 2016

My condolences to the family. A loved one lost can grieve the heart, therefore, treasure the special times spent with John draw strength from the love of family and friends and may God's loving kindness comfort you and help you through this difficult time.
Psalm 119:50,76

Ann Winters

March 27, 2016

He was one of my favorite professors at SJSU. I recognized him before I saw his name. He had such enthusiasm for teaching. My sincere condolences to his family.