John was a loving husband, dad, grandfather and friend. Born and raised in Oakland, John graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1960. He went on to graduate from University of California at Berkeley and obtained his law degree at Golden Gate University School of Law in San Francisco. John started his law career in the Alameda County District Attorney's office. He left to become a well known criminal defense attorney at his long time private practice in Hayward.

John's family was his life. He was always there for his family and friends. John is survived by his wife Jean, sister/brother-in-law Kathy and George Olson, children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In lieu of donations, John would love for you to raise a glass and celebrate his life.

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

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jan. 13 to Jan. 15, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for John McCardle

Sponsored by San Francisco Columbarium & Funeral Home.

14 Entries

Anthony Jackson

June 14, 2017

My deepest condolences to the McCardle family. I was very fortunate to have crosses path with such a fine soul. Because for him my life, and the lives of my family will be changed forever...Thank You

Cathy Livingston Stegall

May 17, 2017

So sorry to learn about John's passing today from Johan Klehs. Ironically, my "love" of politics began back in 1979 when I started working at Jarvis & McCardle. Ted Jarvis ran against Johan for the 18th Assembly District, and John ran for BART Board. John's good friend, Maggie Shanderee work for Senator Alan Cranston. While Ted was more quiet and reserved, John was tall and had a deep, strong voice that came booming out from behind his beard. At first, I would hear his telephone conversations and wondered if his clients weren't offended; John would speak very slowly, like to a child, and very loudly. I came to learn that he did it on purpose to make sure that people understood the point he was trying to make. John came through Loud and Clear, for sure, and even though it felt a bit silly, I mimicked his communication style for years as an insurance broker, especially when using the speaker phone. He had the most beautiful voice of anyone I knew, until I met Ed Stegall. I learned from John how to step up, how to stand tall, how to be direct and to the point. I excelled at Argumentation & Debate, public speaking, teaching, and even singing. He helped me find my own voice. I am so very glad to have known John and to have been invited to his home in Sausalito. My condolences go out to Jeannie, his kids and grandkids. John changed my life, and he'll never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.

Lino Esther Gino Cafiso

April 1, 2017

He will be greatly missed a kindest of soul an incredible spirit a true column for his family and friends.R.I.P John. This is not a good bye but just a see you later my friend.

Scott Bronson

February 10, 2017

The one and only! Miss you forever.

Rita & Grant Wolf

January 27, 2017

It was great getting to know Jack and his humor in out visit from Iowa. He was a fun-loving man who cared for his family and made a friend of everybody he met. He will be truly missed. Our thoughts are prayers are with all his family.

Dennis McLaughlin

January 22, 2017

John was a fine lawyer and a fine man. I always smiled when John was in the courtroom. He got right to business-- sometimes with great energy--but was never unkind, even to his adversaries.
Johnny, may the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Lee Mezzetti

January 21, 2017

J Mc, (as I always called you), I first met you over forty years ago and always enjoyed seeing you in the various courts we frequented. You will be greatly missed and are in my thoughts and prayers.

Phil Schnayerson

January 20, 2017

I'll miss this grumpy old man who I saw in court for the last 35 years. Great lawyer and even a better man. Bon Voyage buddy!

Nancy DuBois

January 19, 2017

You are one of Sausalito's Finest and will go down in Sausalito history. I will never forget our chats in the early evening 's when I worked at the Casa Madrona in the summer time. You were always carrying your cell phone and walking in the street right next to the curb. You had me in stitches. Always on your way to the No Name!
RIP . Blessed Be.

Dunya Fraser

January 18, 2017

John, my family has been blessed to watch you colorfully grace Sausalito publically for almost half a century. Your fearlessness is a force and I thank you for pushing the envelope:) Thank you for having my fathers back through the years...this means a lot to our Fraser family. We have popped open some Irish whiskey in your honor. You are already missed. Sausalito will not be the same without you. Sending much love to you in heaven and your family here.

Jack Fritschi

January 17, 2017

Jack:
Many years have passed since we spoke last but I will always remember how much fun you were to be around. My thoughts are with Jean and the rest of your family during this hard time. RIP my friend.

Dee

January 15, 2017

Here's to you Jonh you were a great attorney and will be missed

George Wood

January 13, 2017

John, so glad we got out for an evening in October. Will miss you greatly.

Kim

January 12, 2017

You will be missed by many

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