August 23, 1936 – June 6, 2024
John Ferrando, 87, passed away on June 6, 2024 in Mountain View, CA. Born in Redwood City on August 23, 1936 to Biagio and Maria Yolanda Ferrando, he is survived by his brother, Alfred. John, who was known as Papa John to many, was a father to Michael, Gregory, Johnny (deceased), and Vicki, a grandfather to Kyle and Travis and great grandfather to Josephine. His sister, Lillian, died earlier this year.
A 1951 alumni of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School, and a Sequoia High School graduate in 1955, John did one tour of duty in the Army where it was determined he could sleep anywhere, anytime. After that he found a job as a manufacturer’s representative for water treatment and swimming pool supplies, a role he was natural for given his ability to talk with anyone. He quickly moved to starting his own company, which he ran until he retired. His approach to life was “work hard and it will pay off”, which he followed with great success. He was a proud Redwood City native and a proud Italian.
John and his family lived in Los Altos for more than three decades and his four children were raised there. John loved to travel and enjoyed fine meals with family and friends. He particularly liked going to Tahoe and enjoying his speed boat and San Diego, and dabbling in the garden. He spent his last years sharing the family home in Redwood City with his sister. John will always be remembered for his ability to spark up a friendly conversation. He made a huge impact anytime he entered a room, he always had a welcoming smile and made people feel comfortable.
