Passed away peacefully in his sleep on Feb. 11, 2007, at age 80. He is survived by his immediate family which includes his loving wife of 56 years, Pat; children, Rick/John Mahlstedt and his wife Pattie, Chon Olson and her husband John, Stacy, Steve and his wife Sue, Alison Laurie and her husband Steve; his grandchildren, Alianne, JD, Ryan, Erin, Evan, Benson, Paytie, Spencer, Brian and Kate; and his great-grandchildren, Antonio and Kailee; and his sister, Peg; and his extended family which includes too many "adopted" sons, daughters, brothers and sisters around the world to include in this space. You know who you are!
John worked at United Airlines for 40 years. He traveled extensively throughout the world. When he wasn't flying around the world he loved to go on cruises. John also loved being at his warm and inviting home in Burlingame where he would cook big dinners for what ever family or extended family member was around. He worked those meals off and stayed in great shape well into his late 70's by riding his bike 10 to 20 miles a day.
John was a kind, gentle, compassionate man. He was soft spoken with a huge heart. He genuinely cared for others. His home was open to everyone. A phrase that was heard frequently around Burlingame was "Hey, there's a party at the Mahlstedt's."
With that in mind, one of John's final wishes was to have a "Celebration of Life Tribute/Party" rather than a somber memorial service. Please join his family in honoring those wishes by wearing your most colorful Hawaiian attire (sandals or flip flops highly encouraged). The "Tribute to John" starts at 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, 1007, at the Crystal Springs Golf Course, 6650 Golf Course Dr., Burlingame, with a "Party at the Folks" following.
John's ashes will be scattered at one of his favorite places, Maui, on a beautiful sunset evening, in the near future.
In lieu of flowers or donations, please show kindness to an elderly person today.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Gary Panepinto
February 15, 2007
Mr. Mahlstedt was truly one of the greats.
I had the privilege of meeting the Mahlstedt family when I was just 15 years old back in the early 1970's.
John and Pat's home had an open door policy for all the BHS friends, always showing genuine warmth and hospitality to all who entered. My fondest memories include many celebrations on Linden Avenue in the company of this wonderful family.
Mr. M. was one of the nicest people I have ever met. He lives on through his beautiful family.
Rusty Knudsen
February 14, 2007
I will remember John as a gentle, caring, compassionate,
go-with-the-flow, kinda guy. He was so strong in character in his quiet
consistency, devotion and dedication. His love for life and family is immeasurable and extends beyond to friends of the family.
John had a great sense of humor. He brought joy to many with his infectious smile and laughter. He was genuine in his interest in others and always made you feel welcome in his home.
He was the kind of man whose actions really spoke louder then words. He never seemed to get riled, he always kept his calm.
There is a saying that goes like this, “To love another person, is to
see the face of God”, well John must know God’s face in every detail,
as his love for family and friends was boundless.
I’m so happy to have been a part of your family and his life. He truly
had “A Wonderful Life”
Theo and Thea Pex
February 14, 2007
Dear Pat, You and John were Theo's first landlord in the US. You have been very helpfull and were very appriciated by the Pex's I have gotten to know you and your fam. also and we're glad that we stopped by Christmas day to see both of you together. Keep your chin up, We're thinking about you and your family.
Love, Theo and Thea Pex.
Phyllis Neely
February 14, 2007
Johnnie lived with my aunt and uncle, Inez and Carroll Campbell, while he was still in high school and until his marriage. He joined the Navy and spent time on a ship in the Pacific during the War. Our two families enjoyed many family dinners, activities, and outings. He and sister Peg have always been cherished friends, even though I have not been able to see him or talk to him for many years. I bowl with Joyce Mouton, who worked with Johnnie at United Airlines in the food service for many years.

Applegate Girls-December 2006
Lance, Denise, Kathleen, Nicole, Amanda & Jenna Applegate
February 14, 2007
Dear Pat, The Applegate Family is so sad to hear of John's passing. What a great family he and you created. The Mahlstedt Family was a part of our family. Thank you for the honor to have been a part of this great family and for helping us raise our children.
Perry Fox
February 14, 2007
John will always be remembered as a warm and kind human being. When I hear the word "Folks" I think of the Mahlstedt's.
Mary McInnis
February 14, 2007
John
Mahlstedt will always be, for me, the soft spot in the Mahlstedt
family.
His strong shoulders, welcoming arms; his poise and charm that melted
all our hearts. The picture on this site is how I have always known him. We
will miss him.
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