My condolences to John's family. I first met John when I arrived at Fremont HS in 1998. He was a colleague, role model and mentor throughout my early career to the present. Later, I had the honor of playing for the premiere of his “Doing School” as a teacher soloist with SJYS. Over the last decade plus, I got to play with him as members of the San Jose Wind Symphony. He was always one of the most supportive colleagues of the work I was doing in my program. His encouragement and role modeling gave me a focus for my own teaching. I will be forever grateful and am honored to have called him my friend. 

My sincere condolences to John's family and friends. I share the sadness you all must feel. John was our high school class president, a wonderful friend and a fellow music lover. From a Ladue '65 friend. 

Jan Tureen Abrams

John was a wonderful musician and band director.  He will be remembered.