Birth date: Oct 17, 1958 Death date: Apr 14, 2023
Johnny Andrew Mendiola, son of the late Juan Cruz Mendiola (+) and Elizabeth Baza Sudo of Yona, Guam, is survived by his 3 Brothers (Ronald, Richard, and Albert); 3 Sisters (Anne Marie, Christine, and Nanette); and numerous nieces Read Obituary
I heard through a friend that Johnny had passed. I wasn't aware of hid diagnosis with cancer. Johnny and I go way back to the days of Montgomery Junior High, we had a kinship as we were in the same height category. I reconnected with Johnny back in 2013 when I was working in Oceanside and decided to visit L&L Hawaiian BBQ. I walk in and who do I see, I couldn't believe my eyes, it truly was him. It was a busy day for him so we only shared greetings. I made sure I came back to see if I could catch him when he had a few minutes. Glad I did, we had a wonderful time catching up; then I get transferred to La Verne. We saw each other one last time when he catered our 40th Kearny High School Reunion, we saw each other at the end of the evening when he returned to collect the items. We shared a wonderful hug that I will carry with me forever. If you didn't get to know Johnny, you just don't know what a wonderful person you missed. Johnny you will be with me forever.
When I learned Johnny was diagnosed with cancer, I felt an instant gut punch. I was mad and sad at the same time. How could this happen to someone that was active and took care of himself?
I had the honor of knowing Johnny and his family for over 35 years. He was truly a remarkable person. He was generous with his time, talent, and jokes. He was always thinking of others and helped when there was a need. It was not something he did for attention, he did it because he had one of the biggest hearts around. I feel fortunate to have known Johnny and the imprint he left on my heart (along with so many others). I still cry even weeks after his passing. He was truly one of a kind. I am grateful to have had an opportunity to spend time with him. I think of him often and wonder what kinda shenanigans he is getting into with Dad and Dar. I love and miss you, Johnny. Until we see each other again...
My heart aches knowing you've left us. You were always that ONE friend I knew would always be there for me and my family. You always knew what to say to make it all better. The memories we shared give me comfort, bring a smile to my face and laughter to my heart. I'll always think of you when I open a box of chocolates, place a bet on the roulette table or listen to that that one song.♥️ I love you my friend...Straight From The Heart. I lost an amazing person here on earth but gained a forever Angel. Cheers to you and Fred! I know it's party of there with you two.♥️
We shared the same Birthday, I always appreciated how much you helped me fundamentally with defense on the diamond. You were more than a friend, you were also a mentor to me. Rest easy Mr. Mendiola I love you
Johnny, you were such a genuine and sincere person, and I’m beyond blessed that I met you and honored to call you friend. Such a kind, sweet and giving person. You enjoyed putting smiles on everyone’s faces. Your positivity and sweetness was so pleasant to be around. You were always there when I needed you. I loved all the fun times we had over the years, from softball, to wii bowling, to countless happy hours, to dinners, to birthday celebrations, to hospital visits, to SDSU sporting events, to batting cages, to concerts, to tailgates, to each other houses, etc. You were my pitcher, my hitting coach, my friend, my support, my mentor, my shoulder to lean on. I miss your smile, your life lessons, your impersonations, your stories, your influence, your hugs, your talks and your friendship. I still cannot believe you’re gone. You have left your mark for sure, and you’ve touched so many people. Your spirit lives on! This year was for you, as SDSU made it to the championship game in basketball and Japan won the World Baseball Classic. May you rest in peace! I know you’re looking over us, until we meet again. I love you ❤️!! I really found comfort reminiscing, looking at old photos, and telling stories with your family, friends and loved ones!
Missing your “Good morning Sista” voice when you would call me every morning, followed by the joking and laughs we would have to get the conversation started. The long talks we had while spending the last few months together almost every day are treasured memories. I hope you liked your Celebration of Life services as we did out best to grant all your wishes. Lots of people…family, old friends we knew and some friends we met for the first time, came to honor you and share their stories of you. Heard some great new stories and some forgotten ones too! Amazing to see and hear the affect you had on people and the way you touched so many lives. I’m not surprised though, as you have always been a giver, teacher, mentor, a good friend, and a brother from another mother kind of guy! Definitely felt the love for you that day. I hope we nade you proud.
The hole in my heart is bigger now with you, Dar and Dad gone and I pray that you are all together watching over us. Please give my love and hugs to Dad, Dar and Tim Tim. You are our Angel now and I will keep you forever in my heart. LOVE and MISS you brother. Rest easy. 🤍✝️️🕊️🙏🏽
Nanette lit a candle in memory of Johnny Mendiola
