John D. Valdez, Jr. Fund
Donation protected
I knew John from since the second grade. I'm Samuel Ledwitz John's close friend for over 37 years. When I was new to the Temple City neighborhood in 1979 he was the nice guy that made me feel welcome. We were only 8 years old, but he came across as very wise and caring. He lived only two streets down the block from me. I spent a lot of time over at his house throughout the years. John and his whole family (his brother Jeff, parents and his Grandma) always made me feel welcome. It was a second home for me growing up.
In fifth grade John showed us on the playground that he could solve a Rubiks Cube in about a minute. At a time when they just had come out-- he was already exceptional. This ability also carried over to sports (basketball, baseball and football) and academics.
In sports, during 7th and 8th grade, he didn't attend Oak Avenue, he went to another school and was a star football player.
In ninth grade he came back to Temple City Highschool and was in several of my classes. We would race over to his house during lunch in his VW bug to listen some music he enjoyed. He was very much into his music.
He was smart. I forgot my biology book one day at school and there was a test the next day. I walked over to John's house and asked if I could use his book. He said very easily that he didn't need the book (because he had looked at it earlier in the day. He got an "A" and I got a "B+". He learned very quickly and I always admired it.
Throughout the years after graduation he would come and visit me (at my house, lawschool, where ever). He was that guy that would come over and make your day better. He graduated from the University of Redlands and could always sing the fight song when asked.
John was a very loyal and caring friend to me (and others) for over 37 years. He died suddenly and his family needs help.
I just want to ask all of you to help his family with the final costs associated with his passing. It's just a mere wish to honor him and help his family at this very pressing time. His brother Jeff, his family, and I thank you for any help you can give.
John was a guy you could never forget once you met him. I miss him so much.
In fifth grade John showed us on the playground that he could solve a Rubiks Cube in about a minute. At a time when they just had come out-- he was already exceptional. This ability also carried over to sports (basketball, baseball and football) and academics.
In sports, during 7th and 8th grade, he didn't attend Oak Avenue, he went to another school and was a star football player.
In ninth grade he came back to Temple City Highschool and was in several of my classes. We would race over to his house during lunch in his VW bug to listen some music he enjoyed. He was very much into his music.
He was smart. I forgot my biology book one day at school and there was a test the next day. I walked over to John's house and asked if I could use his book. He said very easily that he didn't need the book (because he had looked at it earlier in the day. He got an "A" and I got a "B+". He learned very quickly and I always admired it.
Throughout the years after graduation he would come and visit me (at my house, lawschool, where ever). He was that guy that would come over and make your day better. He graduated from the University of Redlands and could always sing the fight song when asked.
John was a very loyal and caring friend to me (and others) for over 37 years. He died suddenly and his family needs help.
I just want to ask all of you to help his family with the final costs associated with his passing. It's just a mere wish to honor him and help his family at this very pressing time. His brother Jeff, his family, and I thank you for any help you can give.
John was a guy you could never forget once you met him. I miss him so much.
Organizer
Samuel Ledwitz
Organizer
Redondo Beach, CA