John was born in Garden City, Kansas to Ludwig and Frances Gingrich in 1920. He spent his “youth” in an Army artillery unit in Northern Europe during World War II. That experience shaped his life; over half of his unit did not return home. He later graduated from San Francisco State with both a bachelor’s and master’s degrees. In 1948, he married Margaret in Oakland. John worked for about 30 years as a barber in San Francisco; he then retired and eventually moved to Turlock in 1988.
He is survived by his nephew, Scott (Ruth) Sprain of Loveland, Colo. He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Gingrich; and sister, Virginia Sprain.
Memorial contributions can be made in his memory to the Covenant Village Benevolent Fund, 2125 N. Olive Ave., Turlock, CA 95382.
Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, June 18 at Covenant Village in Turlock.
Please share your memories at www.allenmortuary.com.