John Vlahos

Dear family of John, I taught Jennifer at CPS and was a conductor at the SF Girls Chorus for one year. I just heard of John's passing and want to express my condolences. It's sad that we lost such a vital and lively person, as well as a lover of music. _Susan Swerdlow

I just learned of John's death from a partner at Hanson Bridgett. I was an associate at Hanson Bridgett for my first year of practice, 1976-77, after which I pursued a career in public service at legal aid. Although I was only at Hanson Bridgett for a short time, I always considered John to be my mentor as a litigator. I am forever grateful for his wise counsel and guidance, his patience and his kindness.

Martha,

Though I doubt you would remember me, I remember John with the fondest recollections of our work and association together in Lamplighters, and, in particular, in the production of "The Savoyards." I, too, served on the Board and was privileged to see John in action from a business perspective - always "spot on," always jovial as he extracted donations from all who could not resist his affability, and always a loyal and true friend to the arts. His loss will be noted and heartfelt by so many, and I count myself among those privileged to know and love him dearly.
Diane Gilfether

Martha--
There's no getting around it, the loss of John is a family affair for the Lamplighters. For those of us lucky enough to have long been in this company, it is truly a second family. You and John were not the first flesh and blood family to be born on our stage, and now there are too many more to count. It has been a rare experience to make and share beauty and laughter in such an environment. John's humor, generosity, loyalty and love for the work were pillars of the endeavor. As none of will ever forget the love we had for the company, we who knew John will never forget the pleasure of his presence.

Martha and Family, My thoughts are with you in this difficult time. You and John were special. I am glad I had a chance to spend some time with you.

Martha and Family,

I came to know John when I started working for the dairy farmers of California. John became a true friend and his guidance was always as unquestionable as his integrity. In my opinion, he is what counsel should always aspire to be.

You go through life and sadly find too few people who talk the talk and walk the walk but, John was one.

He was masterful at teaching not only me but my leadership group and board in understanding the complexities of intricate regulations. He taught me so many other things as well. He was always, warm, insightful, smart, funny and caring. What an amazing man!

I wish he could have kept his golf ball on the fairway a bit more often.

Rest gently my friend. You are truly missed.

I will always remember
His Music:
Uncle John's phenomenal singing and acting in H.M.S. Pinafore
Sitting around the piano while he changed the rhythm of songs and we had to guess which song it was
Most recently, hearing Uncle John and Aunt Martha performing with Chora Nova
His Smile:
Uncle John telling a crazy joke or story - with gusto
Watching his delight with his children and grandchildren as they grew up
His Passion:
For languages, for travel, for work, for life
For his FAMILY
We are all better people because we have known John Vlahos. He is forever a part of us all. May he rest in peace.

I'm heartbroken to hear this news. John was responsible for recommending me for a position at Hanson Bridget as a secretary. I'll always remember him as warm, funny, and kind. His passing is a real loss. My condolences to Martha and his family.

Jen and all the Vlahos Clan -

I am so grateful to have known John and spent time with him at the cabin! He welcomed us with open arms and spent time playing silly games with our young children (near teenagers now). Everything about John exuded his love of life and his spirit was infectious!

And how I feel about John is exactly how I feel about you, Jen. What an amazing influence he has had on so many! My thoughts and prayers from afar.

Kathleen (Schneider)

Uncle John was indeed the best! My favorite Uncle!

I remember first meeting him in the 1960's up at the Idaho cabin, and my sister and I went horseback riding with Martha and John. He and Martha (and we tried!) sang along with the player piano, and I was in awe of them both.

Any time we got to spend time with him, he was always right in the moment and on task, with a twinkle in his eye and a ready smile and perhaps a joke, or a question to make you think. You are missed, Uncle John. My prayers are with you, Aunt Martha, Jennifer, Jamie and Jonathan, and your families.
With all my love...

Dear Martha: Thinking of you!
Love,

Uncle John was the best! He was a big influence in my life during my childhood and as an adult. I always enjoyed being around him. I will remember his smile, laugh, and warmth. I will greatly miss him.

Among many wonderful memories of John and our times together in and out of the office, I will forever remember our special and periodic one-on-one lunches at John's Grill.

Bill Taylor