John Michael Gargan

1951 - 2022

JOHN MICHAEL GARGAN

January 3, 1951 October 20, 2022

John Michael Gargan, beloved son, brother, friend, husband, father and Papa was unexpectedly called to his Heavenly home on October 20, 2022.

Of the many roles he took on throughout his life, the ones he cherished and treasured the most were those of devoted husband to his high school sweetheart and wife of 50 years, Kathy, Daddy to his five beautiful daughters, one son, and proud Papa to his five grandsons, two granddaughters and four great grandchildren.

A pioneer in the Pump, Irrigation and Well Drilling business for over 52 years, John learned the business from the ground up. In 1983, John, his father, Larry, and seven employees began Farm Pump and Irrigation Company, a successful family run business that continues to this day. John was honest as they come, and, it has been stated by many who knew him, the hardest working man they've ever known.

His knowledge, expertise and work ethic were of such caliber and so respected within his field that customers and peers alike often sought him out for advice, counsel, and guidance. It mattered not to John if you were a friend or competitor, he was happy to share his wealth of knowledge.

Johns pride in the success of F.P.I., Co. was evident to all who knew him; however, John knew the success of the company was shared by many. As John always said, the success of this company would not have been possible were it not for the hard work, dedication, and expertise brought by the employees here at F.P.I., Co. Many of whom have been with John and the company since the early years.

While deeply gratified with his life-long profession, John found greatest joy and deepest contentment in the loving life he built with his helpmate in all things, his wife, Kathy, and their children.

From family camping trips, salmon fishing on the Rogue River, vacationing at the beach and teaching his girls how to play poker, to all the moments in between, big and small, John reveled in them. His favorite place was wherever those he loved most were. It never seemed to matter how loud or raucous it got. Trust me, with all those girls around him, it got loud. He'd just smile.

He was the light that could penetrate the blackest night. His voice was the steady calm that could be heard above the most ferocious storm. His arms were the safest harbor. His love was unconditional and absolute.

The love and generosity he shared so freely will never be forgotten. The examples he set every day of his life, by word and deed, will forever be our guide.

Until we meet again.

A message from your girls:

You didn't tell us how to live; you lived and let us watch you do it.

(Words adapted from a quote by Clarence Budington Kelland)

You make us proud every day, Daddy. Every day. Proud of the man you are. Proud to be your daughters. Proud of the way you loved our Momma.

Your loving daughters,

Barbie, Kimberly, who now gets to feel your loving arms around her, Alicia, Kelli and Amy.

Memorial Services will be held on November 11, 2022, at 10:00am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 12300 Reina Rd., Bakersfield, Ca, 93312.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Garces Memorial High School or M.A.R.E. Riding Center.

www.bakersfield.com/obits