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John was a fourth generation Californian, born in San Francisco on April 21,1931, to Harold McClellen and Edna Soderman McClellen. He enjoyed his childhood years in San Mateo with cousin Lou Ann Breadlow Civiletti. John attended Santa Clara University on a baseball scholarship, playing summer ball for the semi-pro team Prune Packers. His favorite baseball memory was from a 1951 game against Lefty O'Doul's SF Seals, hitting an 8th inning, game-winning, 3-run rocket over the left field fence.
Upon graduating from Santa Clara in 1953, John served as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserve, assigned to an artillery unit of the 2nd Infantry Division at Fort Lewis. In 1955, he started his career with Bethlehem Steel Corporation in the Labor Relations Department. In 1982, John finished his career with Kemper Insurance as a Hearing Representative in their law department, retiring in 2002.
A Moraga resident for 54 years, John was an active community member. He coached several LMYA baseball teams and served Boy Scout Troop 51 as lead and assistant scoutmaster for 10 years. He enjoyed attending Campolindo and Cal football games, serving Friends of the Moraga Library, and belonging to local chapters of SIRS and Kiwanis.
John leaves us with many good memories of a life well lived, having enjoyed his family, friends, sports, pets, and travels to Hawaii. His sparkling blue eyes, quick sense of humor, and gentle kindness will be missed. Aloha, John!
Donations can be made to: Friends of the Moraga Library at 1500 St. Marys Road, Moraga, CA 94556
Reach the reporter at:
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA