John Paul Marin

John Paul Marin (Marincovich) 94, of Torrance and Avalon, CA died on Monday, August 4, 2014 at his residence. He was born in Avalon, CA, son of the late Mike and Mary Marincovich. He was the loving husband of Josette Marin. They were married 51 years. John split his time between living on the mainland and Catalina Island all his life. Catalina was his favorite place in the world.

John is a World War II veteran, proudly serving his country in the U.S. Navy from 1942-1946. Prior to the war, he attended Pasadena City College where he was proud of playing football and being a teammate to Jackie Robinson. He completed his bachelors degree at Occidental College and masters degree at USC. He became a teacher in the Torrance Unified School District and remained for 40 years before retiring in 1990. He worked weekends and summer breaks in Avalon where he caddied at the golf course, operated harbor patrol boats and captained the famous glass bottom boats. He could tell entertaining stories for hours about the Hollywood stars that visited the island and all the fun he had working on the boats with some of the most interesting personalities in Avalon. Later on, he enjoyed many hours sitting on a bench underneath the big tree at the foot of the Avalon Green Pleasure Pier. Friends and family would sit with him and visitors that happened to take a seat next to him were captivated with all the information he had to offer about Catalina's history.

John was recently honored for his military service as one of the Grand Marshalls for Avalon's annual 4th of July parade. He proudly rode the parade route in his decorated golf cart with his son and grandson. The city also recognized John with a proclamation. He was incredibly appreciative of the honor.

More than anything else, he enjoyed being with Josette and his family. His grandson's youth sports activities were special for John and it brought the family together for many years of memorable and quality time. He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. John is survived by his wife Josette, son John Marin of San Diego, CA, daughter Jackie Sewell of Carlsbad, CA and grandchildren Ryan Sewell, and Alexandra and Michaela Marin.

The family expects to hold a private service on their next visit to Avalon. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages contributions in memory of John to the Catalina Island Museum.


Funeral Home:
Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel
27501 S.Western Ave.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
US 90275