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John Einhorn Obituary

Honorable John Stephen Einhorn, born on July 5th, 1943, was a distinguished Superior Court Judge, renowned for his fair demeanor and unwavering commitment to justice. Throughout his illustrious career, he presided over numerous high-profile cases, approaching each with a sharp legal mind, a compassionate heart, and an unyielding dedication to the principles of justice.

Judge Einhorn, known for his integrity and intelligence, embodied these qualities not only in the courtroom but in his personal life. Committed to his family, he had a passion for travel and frequently explored the world with his Judge friends who were part of the International Academy of Trial Judges, an organization he proudly served as president in 2014. These experiences enriched his life and strengthened the bonds within the legal community.

A devoted golfer, Judge Einhorn's love for the sport took him to courses around the world. His favorite among them was St. Andrews, where he found joy in the game and created lasting memories. During his college years at the University of California Berkeley, he served as the captain of the golf team, showcasing his leadership both on and off the course. John moved to San Diego before I-5 did, playing golf as a young boy in Mission Valley when it was not much more than dairy farms and cow pastures. His roots in the community ran deep, and he witnessed the transformation of the city over the years.

John graduated from Point Loma High School, Cal Berkeley for undergraduate and Loyola University School of Law in Los Angeles, marking the beginning of his impactful legal career. He is survived by his loving wife, Jaci, whom he met in 1963 at Cal Berkeley and married in 1966. Their enduring bond was the reason he found life to be so incredible. They moved to Scripps Ranch in 1970 and had lifelong friends in the community. He is also survived by his son, John (J.J.), and J.J.'s wife Rowena, along with their two children, Cameron, and Ashley. His daughter, Mandy, and son-in-law Ken, share two children, Jack, and Ellie. Judge Einhorn was thrilled that his grandchildren carry on his love of golf.

Judge Einhorn's legacy is defined not only by the cases he presided over but also by the enduring impact he had on the legal community and, most importantly, on the lives of his beloved family. His contributions to the pursuit of justice, coupled with his love for travel, golf, and his early connections to San Diego, will be remembered by those privileged to appear before him and by colleagues who admired his dedication to the principles of the legal profession.

Judge Einhorn's family would like to send a special thanks to his caregiver Manny Santiaguel and all compassionate health care workers at Ridgeview Health Center. A celebration of life will be held at the end of January 2024. If you would like more details, please email [email protected]. In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or your favorite charity.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Dec. 10, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
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R Steven Colborn

July 1, 2024

I knew John from Early Risers and was always amazed at his easy-going and comfortable demeanor. He will be missed - but never forgotten by all his friends who are friends with Bob and Bill.

Virginia Nelson

December 20, 2023

When I was a young lawyer, then Attorney John Einhorn reached out to me to get involved with the San Diego Inn of Court and join the leadership. This was a few years after I had taken the excellent program myself. He was incredibly supportive and a great teacher. Over the years, I have often looked back and felt a lot of gratitude for his support and openness to my participation in what was then an all male group for the officers of the Inn. The San Diego Inn of Court remains one of the best experiences for less-experienced lawyers to learn and grow in their trial skills in our community. John Einhorn's early participation was an important ingredient to the initial success that has now lasted decades with continued great support from the current members and instructors. One of the many gems of the San Diego legal community. Virginia Nelson

Bobbi Laufer

December 13, 2023

Dearest Jaci, JJ, and Mandy,
John will always hold a soft spot in my heart. He was a loving, warm gentleman who will be missed by so many of us. I thank him for his friendship and caring personality. My sympathy goes to your family.
Much love,
Bobbi

Richard Muir

December 12, 2023

In 1970, shortly after I passed the Bar Exam, I worked with John in San Diego as a Deputy City Attorney in the Criminal Division. John was my mentor. I held him in the highest regard and learned a lot from him. Over the ensuing years, we remained casual friends. When he was appointed to the bench, I had every confidence he would be an excellent judge, which he certainly was. John was my trial judge on a serious criminal case in which I represented the defendant. Although I did not win the case, John gave my client a fair trial and a very reasonable sentence. John´s calm demeanor and well-thought-out rulings made it a pleasure to try a case in his department.
My fondest memory of John will always be his insightful leadership discussing the best way to handle our cases while we all munched down on sandwiches in the City Attorney´s lunch room. For a new attorney like myself, it was the most helpful nuts and bolts training I could have ever experienced in jump starting my career. I will be forever grateful for John for his guidance and confidence-building support. He was a good man and will be sorely missed.

Kenneth Martone

December 11, 2023

I was fortunate to have worked with Judge Einhorn during my tenure as Executive Office of the San Diego Superior Court. He exemplified all the qualities of an ethical, honorable, respected jurist.

Jill

December 11, 2023

I knew "Judge John" from a different organization... His wit and life wisdom were priceless. At first I thought him rough and mean.. But he was just the opposite...

Bart

December 10, 2023

Always thought John was a good judge and a good guy.

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