John Marcellus Mussachia, 89, of Downey, passed away peacefully after a long struggle with heart disease on September 14, 2012 with his family by his side.John was born to John Joseph and Anna Clara Mussachia on October 14, 1922 in Downey, CA. He was the only son among four sisters. Upon graduation from Downey High School, John enlisted in the U.S. Navy, and served as Boatswain's Mate 1st Class and a Navy "Scout" in the Pacific Theatre from November 1942 to September 1945. After his honorable discharge, he spent the remainder of his working years in the trucking and transportation industry. In 1950, he married Ginger Reed, and they raised four children together, Michael, Debra, Johnny, and Gina. His family enjoyed growing up in San Clemente on "T-Street", where they spent their childhoods surfing the waves and walking the beach. Many good things can be said about John, including that he had a kind and generous heart, was a hard worker, and good provider. In 1980, sadly, John and Ginger parted ways, and in 1988 he retired to San Jose del Cabo, Mexico. He lived there for 14 years and, after his sight and heart started to fail, he returned to the U.S. For the last 11 years, John has lived in the Downey home of his loving and devoted sister, Winnie. He was cared for not only by his sister, but by her children and their families as well. "Uncle Johnny" was loved for his uncanny ability to recall stories from his youth, with an audience that never tired of his "Tall Tales". He is preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Marguerite, Louise and Katie, among countless other relatives who are no doubt reunited with him now. He leaves behind his precious sister, Winnie Hopkins, who was the best caregiver he could have asked for. He also leaves behind his four children, Michael Mussachia, Debra Mussachia, John (Sara) Mussachia, Gina (Daryle) Mussachia-Bailey, grandchildren, Adam Larsen, Leah Larsen-Jover, Rachel Weisman, Joseph Mussachia, Emily Weston, and great-grandchildren, Anais Jover and Noah Jover. In John's memory, donations may be made by mail to the VA Long Beach Medical Center at 5901 E. 7th Street, Long Beach, CA 90822. Please note on the memo line: Community Living Center (CLC).

********** Published: September 27, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 24