John L. Catelli

In Loving Memory of John “Johnny” Lewis Catelli

John Catelli, 81, of Merced, California born July 24, 1942, in Santa Rosa, to George Catelli and Irene Skaarup, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Merced on May 16, 2024.

John lived and grew up in many places including Santa Rosa, Fort Bragg, San Francisco, Anacortes, WA, San Jose, and Beaverton OR. He was a graduate of Santa Rosa High in 1961. John had a very outgoing personality and was loved and endeared by many friends. He was a hard-working man with a strong work ethic. He, like his father, had a passion for cars, specifically Chevy’s, which lead him into the automobile industry working steadfast for General Motors then retiring, after 30 years of dedication.

After retiring John was very active. He got delight and gratification when tending to his rose garden, lawn, and fruit trees. There was always a project! He was an accomplished photographer - he was always the man behind the camera. He was full of talent and creativity. He really dug into life with charisma like no other. He had a love of wood-crafting, fishing, music, cars, swimming, reading, poetry and so many other things that life had to offer. He was always the one to get people together and brought a lot of joy to his friends and those that he loved. John truly loved his children.

John was a devoted husband to his wife Joan of 38 years. He enjoyed going on adventures and road trips but always looked forward to returning to his home in Merced. During his later years of life, he dedicated himself to caring for his wife Joan and their two dogs Molly and Henry.

John is survived by his wife Joan of Merced, his children, Theresa Catelli Mora of Santa Rosa, Karen Catelli Veramontes of Santa Rosa, Christine Catelli Canchola of Roseville, Julie Catelli of Carmichael, Valorie Catelli of San Jose, and his stepchildren, Daniel Hauff, Gary Hauff and Cynthia Hauff Medeiros along with many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings and cousins.

John will be laid to rest following a service in Santa Rosa at Santa Rosa Memorial Park at a later date. The date and time will be announced once set and all are welcomed to attend both services. Please check back for updates on the Santa Rosa Memorial Park service details.   

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