John Reitz

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of John Henry Reitz on March 28, 2023 at the age of 90. Born on January 17, 1933 to Elizabeth and Henry Reitz in Genoa, Nebraska, John was the youngest of 12 siblings - 10 sisters and one brother.

While in the Navy, John married his high school sweetheart Wilma Jean in 1953. They later moved to California where they settled in San Pedro and raised their children Bill (Pam), Jacke (Lyle) Prideaux, Lisa (Joe) Kastelan, Scott and Kim (Kenny) Youngblood.

John was an artist with his brick and stone work, learning his craft during his first job at the Old Tasman Sea. His bricklaying beautifies homes as far as Nebraska, but he loved working close to home, putting his special touch in the houses of his family and friends.

He shared his love of sports with his family, friends and the San Pedro community, coaching little league and pony league, and endlessly supporting the sporting events of his children and grandchildren. John and Wilma were also dedicated UCLA football season ticket holders for over 30 years - Go Bruins! - and traveled the country and the world with their good friends John and Barbara Trani.

He was predeceased by his loving wife Wilma; parents; siblings, Helen, Ruth, Irene, Lillian, William, Mary, Kate, Eleanor, Phylis and Patty; and granddaughter, Hannah. His memory lives on through his sister, claire; his children; and grandchildren, Matt (Alexis), Courtney (Tyler), Cheryl, Casey, Grant (Kate), Kendra, Kurrin, Jakob, and Sam; great grandchildren, Kennedy, Saylor, Melissani and Andrew; and many nieces and nephews.

Private family services are being held.

Donations in memory of John can be made to Mary Star of the Sea High School Athletic Department.