It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of John Stephen Gabelica, who left us on August 10, 2024, at the age of 77 in Clovis, California. John was born in September 1946 in Clovis to Mary Jane Savino-Gabelica and George Gabelica, joining his cherished sister Georgia to complete their family. As a boy, John loved to explore the open spaces around him, wandering all day long in search of adventure. He fondly remembered the delicious Italian dinners he enjoyed with family each Sunday, a tradition that shaped his love for food and family gatherings.

John was a proud graduate of Clovis High School in 1964, and soon after embarked on a journey to serve his country in the Vietnam War. After returning in 1967, he married Mary Ann Gabelica, with whom he shared over 40 wonderful years. Together, they welcomed their dear son, Jon Stephen Gabelica. John found great fulfillment in being a father to little Jon, often delighting his family with his beloved "dad" jokes and daily check-ins.

John dedicated over two decades of work to the Southern Pacific Railroad before retiring to pursue his passion for community and  entrepreneurship. In 2004 John, along with Mary Ann and little Jon, opened Giovanni's Cafe Italiano, where he created lasting memories with many loved ones. He always made room for family and friends on the restaurant's patio, making sure they received the best service and food. John had a remarkable gift for connecting with people and never met a stranger. He loved sharing stories of old Clovis, bringing joy to everyone around him.

After the passing of Mary Ann, John found love again with Susan Cheney Marino, creating a blended family that included four children and seven grandchildren. Together they enjoyed their travels to the Central Coast, and hanging out with their dogs and cat. Their 15 years together were filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments. In his final years, he most enjoyed listening to his many records from his collection, making Belgian waffles on the weekend with his grandchildren, and sitting on the porch visiting with neighbors and friends.

John is survived by his wife, Susan; his son, Jon Gabelica; his stepchildren, Anthony (Jeramie) Marino, Patrick (Gia) Marino, and Amanda (Brian) Schroeder; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind a host of cousins and many friends who will miss him dearly. He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann Gabelica, his mother and father, Mary Jane Savino-Gabelica and George Gabelica, and his sister, Georgia Gabelica DeGraw. His warmth, kindness, and vibrant spirit will forever remain in our hearts.