John Raphael Brett

John Brett, beloved son, husband, father, grandad, brother, and friend, departed this world on July 17th, 2024 leaving behind a legacy of love and inspiration that will forever guide those who had the privilege of knowing him.

John was born on October 26th, 1955 in Castlebar, Ireland where he grew up the son of the late Marie and Tommy Brett. He will be mourned by his sisters Maura, Joan, and Ann, along with his brothers Michael and Tomas, his sisters and brothers in-law and his nieces and nephews. John was predeceased by his sisters Gabriel and Geraldine. John was a man who illuminated the world with his abundance of love, contagious and endless laughter and deep compassion for those around him. His life was a testament to hard work, kindness, and the profound impact of a gentle spirit.

Throughout his 68 years, John touched countless lives with his Irish wit, wisdom, storytelling, kindness and generosity. As a father, he was a steady hand and source of unconditional love and humor. His guidance was gentle, yet firm, always encouraging them to reach for their dreams and offering support through every triumph and challenge. John was his daughters' biggest champion and always a beacon of light for them to call on when the need arose to lift their spirits.

John graduated from University College Cork with a Bachelors of Arts as well as a Higher Diploma in Education. John emigrated to the United States with his beloved wife of 46 years Susanne, and daughters Louisa and Astrid in January of 1988. He and Susanne went on to own their own successful business of 20 years at the Castle Heraldry Shoppe in Disneyland in Southern California. After retirement, John joined Home Depot where he was known and liked by many, colleagues as well as customers. John loved nothing more than meeting new people, telling them stories and making people laugh. His generosity and compassion were abundant to all who met him.

Beyond his achievements, John had a passion for music, poetry, “cruising” the world, and of course, his favorite football team, Liverpool Football Club. John eagerly shared stories of his travels and misadventures openly and loved sharing his music with dear friends and those he was closest to. John and his wife Susanne traveled at every opportunity, visiting museums and enjoying other cultures. They grew to adore Italy, especially Venice and Rome.

Whether imparting his knowledge or simply enjoying moments of quiet reflection, he found pleasure in the simple things in life and taught us all to appreciate every precious moment. John loved being a grandad and spending time with his grandson Stirling and granddaughter Ella every opportunity he had.

In his final days, surrounded by the love of his family, John faced his illness with remarkable courage and grace. His unwavering faith and strength were a source of comfort and inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to be by his side.

John leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire us all. He is survived by his wife Susanne, daughters Louisa and Astrid, their husbands Scott and Randy, his grandchildren Ella (2 years old) and Stirling (3 years old) his sisters and brothers, and a community of friends whose lives he enriched beyond measure.

In honoring John's memory, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life defined by love, humor, compassion, and the unwavering belief in the goodness of humanity. Although he may no longer walk beside us physically, his spirit will forever guide us, and his memory will live on in our hearts.

Family and friends are invited to attend funeral services at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church on Thursday, August 1st with prayer of the Rosery at 10:00 am, followed by a funeral mass at 10:30 (same location). Let us come together to share stories, cherish memories, and find solace in the profound impact he had on each of us.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in John’s honor to https://cholangiocarcinoma.org/.

Rest in peace, dear John. Your humor, wisdom, kindness, strength, and love will remain with us always, a beacon of light in our lives.