Obituary

John Madathiparembil Varkey
January 28, 1940 – November 24, 2024

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of John Madathiparembil Varkey, who left this world peacefully on November 24, 2024, at his home in San Juan Capistrano, California. His beloved wife, Rosamma, was by his side. He was 84 years old.

John was born in Kerala, India, on January 28, 1940, and grew up surrounded by a loving family, many of whom still reside in India and remained an important part of his life. In his early 20s he left his homeland in search of better opportunities and education. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Dairy Technology in Bombay, he moved to Germany, where he continued his education in the field. His journey then took him to Canada, where he settled with his beloved wife, Rosamma K. Varkey. They started their family in Kitchener, Ontario. John worked in the dairy industry and later as a manager at Pepsi-Cola Industries for the next 15 years.

In 1984, John moved his family to California in search of a brighter future and greater opportunities for his children’s education. He found success as a real estate broker in Fremont, California, where he made lasting connections and built a thriving career. In 2010, John and Rosamma moved to San Juan Capistrano to be closer to their children and grandchildren, a move that brought them great joy as they cherished time spent with their growing family.

John was an ambitious and resilient man, known for his unwavering dedication to his family and his ability to overcome life’s many challenges. Throughout his life, he was a devoted Catholic and a man of great faith, who lived by principles of kindness, generosity, and love. He took great pride in supporting the educational aspirations of his family and extended relatives, helping many achieve their dreams.

John is survived by his loving wife of many years, Rosamma, his three daughters, Taz, Tina, and Celine, and his five adoring grandchildren, Maya, Ella, Ava, Asha, and Xavier. He was preceded in death by his dear grandson, Alexander Zell, who passed away just before him, and is now reunited with him in heaven.

John’s family and friends will forever remember him for his beautiful nature—both inside and out. His legacy of love, devotion, and perseverance will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A funeral service will be held in his honor at the Mission Basilica in Dana Point, California, on December 7, 2024, at 10:00 AM. All are welcome to attend and celebrate John’s remarkable life.  The funeral Mass will also be live-streamed at https://www.facebook.com/missionbasilicasjc
and https://vimeo.com/missionbasilica