LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – John Torquemada, 89, of Kelseyville, Calif., passed away on March 8, 2017, in Medford, Ore.

John was born Dec. 10, 1927, in Decoto, Calif., to Antonio and Paula (Sanchez) Torquemada.

He graduated from Washington High School in 1945. On Aug. 9, 1956, he married the former Felisa (Phyllis) Dominguez in Rosario, Argentina.

In his lifetime, John was employed as restaurateur/owner of Johnnie’s Hot Dogs in Niles, laborer for Martin & Diaz Construction (Decoto), manufacturer at Occidental Stove Co. (Fremont), and a custodian, building and grounds foreman, and later, superintendent of facilities and maintenance for the Fremont Unified School District.

He retired in 1983, and spent the rest of his life enjoying the outdoors, family and friends. He was an avid outdoorsman, chasing deer, diving for abalone, and single-handedly reducing the salmon and steelhead stocks from California to Alaska.

He also enjoyed birdwatching, gardening and spending time with his children and grandchildren. John was the kind of guy that would give a stranger the shirt off his back.

John is survived by his wife, Phyllis; his three sons, Rich Torquemada (Cherie Peacock) of Stevensville, Mont., Dan Torquemada (Sandra) of Mt Shasta City, Calif., Mike Torquemada (Heather) of McKinleyville, Calif.; five grandchildren, Jake, Kelley, Kyle, Alex and Emily Torquemada; his sisters, Antenette Diaz and Josie George of Union City, Calif.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Tony and Harold; and sisters, Theresa Martin and Mary Torquemada.

Visitation will be held at Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 1625 North High St., Lakeport, on Saturday, March 18, from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Military funeral honors will be at 3:30 p.m. with Father Mario Valencia officiating a Rosary service at 4 p.m. Burial will follow on March 20 at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon.

Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com .