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John Carman Obituary
04/05/2025
John Carman, 78, passed away on April 5, 2025, in San Francisco, California. A gifted writer and vibrant personality, John left an indelible mark on journalism and the lives of those who knew him.
Born on November 28, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan, John's early years were shaped by a deep curiosity and a love for storytelling. He attended Redford High School in Detroit before pursuing higher education at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. He later continued his studies at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois-an academic path that laid the foundation for his distinguished career in journalism.
John's professional journey began as a reporter, feature writer, and columnist at the Minneapolis Star (later the Minneapolis Star Tribune). His talent and voice soon led him to the Atlanta Journal and Constitution as a columnist.
But it was in San Francisco where John truly made his mark. For 16 years, he served as a celebrated television columnist for the San Francisco Chronicle. During his tenure there, he penned an extraordinary 3,500 columns-each one reflecting his sharp wit, keen insight into media and culture, and unmistakable passion for entertainment.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, John was known for his warmth and zest for life. Whether discussing the latest television series or cheering on his favorite teams-the San Francisco 49ers, Golden State Warriors, or San Francisco Giants-John brought enthusiasm joy and clarity to almost every conversation.
In retirement, John embraced another creative pursuit: photography. He became a professional photographer, channeling his eye for detail and storytelling into powerful visual art. This new chapter allowed him to continue engaging with the world around him in meaningful ways.
Above all else, John cherished his role as a father. He was a warm, loving parent to his beloved son John Michael, who was truly the apple of his eye. Their bond was deep and enduring-a source of great pride and happiness throughout John's life.
A memorial gathering to honor John's life will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Driscoll's Valencia Street Mortuary, located at 1465 Valencia Street in San Francisco.
John Carman will be remembered not only for his remarkable contributions to journalism but also for the joy he brought to those around him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved him.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Carman
Sponsored by Driscoll's Valencia Street Serra Mortuary.
6 Entries
Marianne Adolfo Fong
June 6, 2025
John Carman is a good man. And a great father to our son John Michael Carman.
Hi David Lovelace,
I´ve been trying to contact you to invite you to John Carman memorial service. But I cannot find you. You´ve been a big help and long time friend of John. I remember you many time you are supporting John Carman driving his car to and from. So he can see our son John Michael. So I thank you for doing it. I appreciate all your help. God bless always. My son John Michael is 16 years old now. He says hi. Keep in touch.
Dane Smith
June 5, 2025
John was a very close friend for many years and I was best man at his wedding to wife Kit back in 1985. He was brilliant writer and thinker and a role model for me as a young reporter after I got to know him at the Minneapolis Star in the late 1970s. I knew he was really declining when I last talked to him on the phone in late March. I tried to call him a couple times since but got not answer and only discovered that he passed after a Google search a couple days ago. I'm sorry I couldn't add something to memorial service in early May. And I'm hoping his son John Michael can contact me, as I'd like to pass on a few things about his wonderful dad. My wife Mary and I met John Michael on a visit to John in July of 2016. My contact info is: Dane Smith, is 651-675-6360, email is [email protected] , address is 569 Montrose Lane, St. Paul, MN 55116.
David Lovelace
May 13, 2025
A great journalist, fantastic photographer, dedicated father,and good friend for over 40 years. His humor will be missed.
Astrid Lacitis
May 1, 2025
I don't even remember how I came to meet John, it was so long ago. But a condo came up for sale in our building, and I told John I thought it was a very good deal. He agreed, bought it. For the princely sum of $318,000! Over the years, I had the pleasure of watching John teach his son to ride a bike in the parking lot, hear of their shared love for film. Rest In Peace, John.
Marianne
April 29, 2025
He will be missed. Godspeed
M Collins
April 29, 2025
Mr. Carman was a very enjoyable read for many many years. He was read and enjoyed countless times and he made a contribution to the culture and arts. RIP
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
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Driscoll's Valencia Street Serra Mortuary1465 Valencia Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
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