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John Rawlins Obituary
John was a three sport athlete at Napa High School and named Block N Athlete of the Year in 1959 as a senior. John was later inducted into the Napa High School Athletic Hall of Fame. John had an incredible memory and loved reminiscing about his childhood, playing sports, and Napa history. John was loyal to his customers and the go-to expert in Napa for all things septic.
John was a dedicated "Papa". He never missed a sporting event or performance and would go to any length to make sure his grandkids had the things that made them happy. He was quick to tell people how proud he was of his grandchildren. John will be remembered through the things he loved; music, concerts, baseball, fast-pitch softball, shooting the breeze, good home cooking, and family vacations in Lake Tahoe.
John is survived by his three daughters and sons-in-law: Laura and Jose Ceja, Leslie and Jon Gjestvang, and Jill and Mike Raymond; his siblings, Barbara Estes and Dennis Rawlins; and his grandchildren, Andrea Ceja, Elizabeth Ceja, Alex Ceja, Gabriela Ceja, Zoe Gjestvang, Anabelle Gjestvang, Emily Raymond, Andrew Raymond, and Nicholas Raymond.
He was predeceased by his wife, Vicki; his parents, John and Mona; his brother, Gary; and his grandchildren, Kendall Raymond and Griffin Raymond.
Dad, thank you for taking care of us, loving us no matter what and for your truly generous spirit. We will leave a game on for you.
We are deeply grateful for those who loved and cared for our Dad. A service will be held at Tulocay Chapel on Friday, April 11th at 11 am. Donations in lieu of flowers can be sent to Napa High School attn: Scholarship Coordinator, 2475 Jefferson St., Napa, CA 94558. Memo: John Rawlins. This memorial scholarship will benefit graduating Napa High School athletes.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Rawlins
Leo Cunningham
May 10, 2025
Prayers to you and your whole family.
Chuck Shinnamon
April 14, 2025
John was a prince of a fellow. I enjoyed working with him on numerous projects. He was honest, hardworking, full of fun life, and always did his best for his customers. I know his family and friends will miss him very much.
Staci Hodge
April 13, 2025
Laura,
We were sorry to hear about your Dad's passing.
Sending our condolences, to your family.
The Hodge Family
Bobby Campo
April 11, 2025
A gentle giant and a genuinely good guy. RIP John.
M
April 8, 2025
To one of the top five teammates I ever had in fast pitch softball. I remember your great sense of humor and long home runs. Thanks for the memories Mike Hull
Heli Sairanen
April 7, 2025
John was a genuinely good man. He was helpful and ethical in all the business dealings I had with him. I am saddened to see his obituary. I also remember the fabulous wreaths your Mom, Vicki used to make. Another chapter of Napa history laid to rest. My deepest condolences to all who knew them both. Sincerely, Heli Sairanen--Coldwell Banker Brokers of the Valley.
The Stout Family
April 5, 2025
Our heartfelt condolences
Dan Mini
April 5, 2025
Good guy and good teammate. I still can hear Big John´s laugh in my head to this day!
BARBARA GRAY
April 4, 2025
SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS FAMILY.
BLESSINGS.
Adriana Bardouski
April 3, 2025
My sincere condolences for you Laura and your sisters and family. May the Lord Keep you in His Holy hand during this difficult time.
Anissa
April 1, 2025
You are (as you said) my second father and Papa John to my girls. Thank you for all the love and laughs. I´m so proud to have been one of your Squads. Love you and miss you very much. XOXO
Sara Turley
April 1, 2025
So sad to read that my friend has passed, I have many fond memories of him.
RIP John, my thoughts and prayers to all his family. RIP my friend.
Love Sara Turley
Stuart Funk
April 1, 2025
Big John was a truly "good guy". What you saw is what you got. No pretense, no drama...consistent. Over the decades, John and I worked on many septic systems throughout Napa County. We managed to help owners put in new or repair systems that many thought impossible. He had an impressive memory. On countless occasions, John could immediately tell "exactly" where ancient leach lines and tanks were buried and how the system had been built. He was a pleasure to work with and call friend. I´ll miss Big John. Stuart Funk
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