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John Joseph Farrell
1951 - 2025
BORN
1951
DIED
2025
UPCOMING SERVICE
John Farrell Obituary
11/22/1951 - 08/23/2025
John Joseph Farrell passed away in Foster City, CA, at the age of 73. He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Nancy, son Brian (Ynes), and grandsons Johnathan and Ryan. He was preceded in death by his parents Alvin and Agnes, brothers Charles and Richard, brothers-in-law Queston Boston, Steve Kurenitz, Gary McMurtry and Nick Coblio and sister-in-law Suzanne B. Ellison.
He leaves behind his loving siblings Judith Boston, Agnes Crothers, Maryanne Kurenitz, Virginia McMurtry, Monica Curran, and Vincent Farrell, along with his saddened sisters-in-law Katherine Farrell, Kathleen Farrell, Sally Stevens and Julie Burdick, brothers-in-law Tom Curran and Stephen Burdick.
Born and raised in San Francisco's Noe Valley, John attended St. Paul's School and Sacred Heart High, where he was a standout pitcher for the baseball team. He later continued playing at SF City College. In 1977, he married Nancy, and they built a happy life together in San Francisco and later the San Mateo Highlands.
John joined the San Francisco Fire Department in 1974, serving with dedication for 29 years-primarily at Station 5 and the Radio Communication Center-before retiring in 2003. Known for his quick wit and storytelling, he brought humor and camaraderie to every firehouse he served.
A 5-time Gold Medal winner with the SFFD Red softball team, John also coached women's softball for over a decade. After retirement, he volunteered with the SFFD Toy Program and worked at Oracle Park as a Giant's usher and supervisor where he was loved by coworkers and fans alike.
John remained active in the firefighter community, organizing luncheons and supporting fellow retirees. Most of all, he was a proud husband, father, and grandfather who adored his family.
A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, September 26, 10 AM at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 221 Valley St., San Francisco. Reception to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to the SF Firefighters' Toy Program, 1139 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94103.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for John Farrell
Memories and Condolences
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1 Entry
Gary Gfroerer
Yesterday
I worked with John at Oracle Park. He always had us laughing, as he had the best stories around. But more than that, he was a real good guy. Rest in peace my friend.
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