John Phelan Obituary
John passed away peacefully on September 3, 2025, in Saratoga, California, with his family by his side. He was born on June 13, 1941, in Nevada City to John "Jack" Phelan and Ardith (McQuin) Phelan. His early years were spent in North San Juan before moving to "the ranch", near his uncle Jim Phelan, and finally to Ridge Road in Grass Valley in 1957.
He graduated from Nevada Union High School in 1959, Sierra College in 1961 and UC Berkeley with a degree in engineering in 1963.
John is survived by his devoted wife, Irene; sons Richard (Cathy), and Jeff (Diane); sister Anna (Phelan) and his cherished granddaughters, Meaghan and Kelley. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and family traditions that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
0 Entries
Be the first to post a memory or condolences.
Make a Donation
in John Phelan's name
How to support John's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John Phelan's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
