John M. Chinn
December 10, 1946 — October 17, 2018
John Chinn was born in Wayne, Michigan on December 10, 1946. He joined the U.S. Navy at the young age of 17. He was stationed on the USS Isle Royale (AD-29). He served from January 27, 1964 to December 7, 1967. He received the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal. He learned sheet metal and welding trade while in the Navy.
After being honorable discharged from the Navy, John returned to California as a welder for the Long Beach Naval Shipyards until it later closed. Following that, he worked in the private sector for many years as a welder.
John loved to golf and did volunteer work at the Navy golf course for many years. He enjoyed working in his garage doing welding projects and creating new things. He was quick to do odd jobs for those he cared for any anyone in need while making sure to keep busy. John was very active and could be found working in the yard, growing his own vegetables, and other activities like running, walking, riding his bike, and camping in many places with friends. John and his wife Rayetta, were known to drive all around the U.S. in their RV and camp wherever the day would take them. Many times, up to 2 months on the road visiting people they knew across the U.S. and exploring the beautiful countryside.
John loved spending time with all his grandchildren and often said the one he happened to be with at the time was his favorite. The favorite was always a standing joke from the adult kids, grandkids, and caregivers.
John has five children:
Biological son, David with his first wife Joan
Stepdaughter, Natalie with his deceased wife Judi
Stepdaughters, Raechelle Sievers & Cindy Hendrix with wife Rayetta
Stepson, Richard Hendrix with wife Rayetta
Eight Grandchildren: Ashley Gray, Makenzie Hendrix, Autumn Benninton, Paris Bennington, Christopher Chinn, Jeremy Sievers, Hailey Hendrix, and Amber Sievers
One Great-Grandchild: Gage Hernandez
One living Brother: Martin Chinn
One living Sister: Nancy Chinn
And many loving family members, friends and caregivers.
He is preceded in death by his father, Patrick Chinn, mother, Eva Chinn and sister, Fayetta Walker.
Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401
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