It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of John Iacovelli on April 14, 2023. Born on February 25, 1959, John was a creative and dedicated individual who had a profound impact on the world of theater, and particularly on those who had the good fortune to know and work with him. He is survived by his siblings: Cameron Iacovelli, Dariel Wines, Violet Iacovelli, Victoria Williams, and Gaela Iacovelli; nieces: Rochelle Iacovelli, Sylvia Micheli, and Melanie Lewis; nephews: Skylar Van Rensselaer, Ian Van Rensselaer, Spencer Williams, and David Iacovelli; great nieces: Maevyn Micheli, Ellie Williams and Zoe Van Rensselaer; great nephew: Carmelo Van Rensselaer; cousins: Frank Pascale, Sylvia Ricciardi, and Margaret Rogerson among many others who will treasure his memory and ensure that his extraordinary legacy lives on.

John was known for his authenticity, attention to detail, and drive in both his professional and personal life. As a mentor and a responsible figure, he was instrumental in guiding the careers of countless students and aspiring theater professionals. His core belief was that anyone could create anything they wanted for themselves, and that it was essential to always push oneself to be better.

Throughout his illustrious career, John received numerous accolades and awards, including the USITT Distinguished Award in 2018, an Emmy Award for his work on "Peter Pan Staring Cathy Rigby," and the LA Drama Critics Circle for Lifetime Achievement in Scenic Design. His talent was evident in the more than 300 productions he designed across the country.

John's most enduring legacy, however, will be his impact as a teacher and mentor. Having spent 20 years on the design faculty in the Department of Theatre & Dance at the University of California, Davis, he played a crucial role in establishing and building the MFA program at UC Davis. Over the course of his teaching career, John touched a great many lives with his mentorship and guidance, instilling in his students not only a passion for theater but also a strong sense of discipline and dedication to their craft.

In lieu of flowers, donations are being directed to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to help continue the fight against blood cancers. Contributions can be made at https://everloved.com/life-of…. John's memory will live on through the countless individuals he inspired, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

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