John Paul Crvarich

Published in San Francisco Chronicle on 7/9/2009

John Paul Crvarich Born Sept. 22, 1922 in Novato, CA and died July 4, 2009. He grew up in Oakland, attending St. Patrick's grammar school, St. Mary's High School and McClymonds High School.

Excelling in baseball, he signed with the St. Louis Browns in 1938 at the age of 16. As WWII began, he enlisted in the Air Force as a navigator where he taught Croatian to the Yugoslav pilots. After the War, he attended Stanford University, graduating in 2 1/2 years. From there he went through the University of San Francisco Law School, passing the State Bar in 1951.

He enjoyed a 40 year career practicing law in S.F. and Oakland. John loved life. He had a thirst for knowledge and always wanted to learn more about everything - and then share it with you.

He leaves behind the love of his life, Romaine; and their children - Kathleen (Bill), John (Anna), Nancy (Tom), Laura (Jeff) and Mark (Grace), twelve grandchildren - John, Scott, Megan, Tim, Lisa, Mari, Jenna, Sarah, Caitlin, Jack, Annika and Zachary - and one great-grandson, Peter. He considered himself a lucky man to have lived this wonderful life, but truly it is we, his family, who were the lucky ones. Rest in peace, Dad. We love you!

Viewing and Rosary to take place Thursday, July 9, 2009 at 7:00 PM at the Cathedral of Christ the Light, 2121 Harrison Street at West Grand Street, Oakland CA. A Funeral Mass on Friday, July 10, 2009 at 1:30 PM, also at the Cathedral.

Entombment to follow in the Cathedral Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to suggest donations be made to Creative Growth in Oakland or the American Diabetes Association in Memory of John Crvarich. Holy Angels Funeral & Cremation Center FD-1456 (510) 537-6600.