John Gordon Lowry

April 1, 1931 - February 19, 2024

John passed peacefully on Feb 19 at his home in Tucson surrounded by family and friends—just shy of 93! He led a good life, a fulfilled life and earned this final peace. John was loved and admired for his leadership, mentoring, humor, and storytelling gifts, but most of all for his sincere friendship.

From the small Arizona town of Seligman, John became a top high school athlete in the Sate playing football and basketball. He was also the State champion hurdler.

John continued his education at the University of Arizona on a football scholarship. He played from 1949 to1953—back in the days of the leather helmets! He was a Letterman for three years. During this time John also held the Arizona Golden Glove heavyweight championship for 1953.

John's coaching and teaching career was long, varied, and successful. He dedicated himself to high school sports until all three of his children graduated. Starting in 1969, he led Antelope Valley High School in Lancaster, California (the school his children attended) to seven consecutive Golden League championships, winning CIF championships in 1976 and 1977. In 1976 John was named High School Coach of the Year for California.

John moved on to coaching college level at UNLV and then to professional football in Canada. Still in the game, he coached American football in Hungary when he was 81 years old! His love of sports was only surpassed by his love of family and friends.

John and his wife, Tina Jácome, had 18 years together and were grateful for every one. They shared their love of travel, and spending time with family and friends. In addition to his wife, John is survived by his three children: Jim and Jan Lowry, Denise and Rich Meade, Bob and Lisa Lowry; and his 7 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

John is predeceased by Mary Lou, his wife of 48 years and the mother of his children; and his 3 siblings Jim Lowry, Jean Rosasco, and Mal Lowry.

Per John's wishes there will be no services. At a later date his ashes will be spread along the California coastline.