John H. Prouty Jr.

1947 - 2024

John H. Prouty Jr.
05/19/1947 - 12/29/2024
John H. Prouty, Jr., 77, of South San Francisco, CA, passed away on December 29, 2024, at his home, surrounded by loved ones. Born on May 19, 1947, in San Francisco, John was the beloved son, brother, father, father-in-law, grandfather, spouse, uncle, colleague, leader, public servant, and friend whose joyous laughter and generous heart touched the lives of everyone who knew him. His laugh was one of his most defining traits-so full of life and warmth that you could hear it a mile away and feel it ripple joy through your being.
John embodied his personal motto: "Enjoy life. Live for today. Plan for tomorrow." He will be remembered for his big, beautiful personality, strength, and dedication to family, community, and service. Coming from humble beginnings, John had and achieved big dreams among challenges.
Growing up in South San Francisco and spending most of his 77 years there, John formed lifelong friendships with neighbors and community members. He was a big and tall man who loved football and was a standout player at El Camino High School, earning the nickname "Meathooks" for his large hands and blocking ability. John was also a lifelong 49ers fan where you would find him at many home games.
John was the first in his family to earn a college degree, attending both College of San Mateo and San Jose State University. John also joined the Air Force and became a licensed pilot. He later transitioned to real estate, where he thrived as a business owner and broker. He opened two Century 21 offices in South San Francisco and Millbrae, building a respected business and a community of agents he considered family. He later sold the business and continued to work in real estate throughout his life.
John was deeply involved in public service and professional organizations. He was a longtime member of the YMI Council #32, Elks Lodge, Lions Club, and the San Mateo County Board of Realtors among others. He served on the South San Francisco Planning Commission from 2005 to 2013, including two terms as chairman, and received numerous awards for his contributions, including a lifetime achievement award from SAMCAR.
John also had a passion for the water. He enjoyed over 66 cruises and loved boating, which began in childhood and became a central part of his later years. As a member and past commodore of the Oyster Point Yacht Club, he found community and joy on the sea.
John is survived by his partner Nancy Kaniuth; daughter Maryann Baumgarten, son-in-law Mark Baumgarten; grandchildren Kayla and Josh Baumgarten; sister Ann Miler; sister-in-law Jeannie Prouty; niece Melissa Prouty Thompson, great-niece Siena Thompson, former wife and mother of his daughter Maureen Prouty; and many cherished friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Norma Prouty; brother Jim Prouty; second wife Kay Prouty; and third wife Marlene Prouty.
A private service will be held, followed by a celebration of life on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 12:30 PM at the Oyster Point Yacht Club, 911 Marina Blvd., South San Francisco, CA 94080. Family and friends are invited to join the celebration event to honor John's extraordinary life. He was always dancing, so live music will be performed to celebrate his spirit and ensure his presence is felt by all.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made directly to YMI Council #32's Educational Foundation and the Louis P. Guaraldi Food Basket Program in John Prouty's honor, via this link - https://gofund.me/82b6191c