Jean M. Hontalas

Jean was a graduate of Tufts University. Her first professional position was as a teacher in the New York City public school system, but her true calling was health care and physical therapy.

At the age of 20, Jean joined the United States Army. She was commissioned and given the opportunity to return to school to complete her education in physical therapy. Her first assignment took her to Texas, where she met the man who would become the love of her life, John Louis Hontalas.

After two years in Texas, Jean and John were married in Washington, D.C. Jean then began her second Army assignment at Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington, D.C., continuing her work in physical therapy and health care. The couple later moved to San Francisco, California, where John, who was born there, completed his CPA examinations. Jean was discharged from the Army two years later at the rank of Captain.

Jean and John eventually made their home in Salinas, California, where they raised their family. Jean devoted herself not only to her family and her profession, but also to serving her community. She was involved with numerous volunteer organizations throughout the years, including the VNA, which she helped establish. Her commitment to helping others was a constant throughout her life.

When her children were in their teenage years, Jean began her own physical therapy practice in 1980. Her dedication and accomplishments were recognized when she received a Business Excellence Award for a Female Business Professional. She was also honored with a Humanitarian Award from Monterey County in recognition of her many years of volunteer service to the community.

Jean retired from her physical therapy practice in 1996, but retirement did not mean stepping away from a life of service. Following the death of her husband, John, after 44 years of marriage, Jean moved to Carmel, where she continued her volunteer work and remained active in the community.

It was also in Carmel that Jean discovered a new passion: dachshunds. Her first dachshund, Jake, was followed by Blitzen. These new four-legged roommates brought Jean great joy and companionship. Her love for her dogs and the friendships they inspired eventually led to the creation of the Carmel Dachshund Club, adding another special chapter to her life in Carmel.

Jean embraced her Carmel years with curiosity, friendship, and an appreciation for the arts and community. She was active in the Reading Club, Writing Club, Hat Club, Coffee Clash, and the Arts and Theatre. These activities brought her together with friends and allowed her to continue learning, creating, laughing, and enjoying life.

In her later years, Jean especially treasured time with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed traveling, walking the beach, and sharing those walks and the beauty of Carmel with her family.

She is survived by her children, Anthia Netto (Ken) of Goodyear, Arizona and Ted Hontalas (Randi) of Salinas, California her grandchildren, John Cody Hontalas (Ciera) and Branden Theodore Hontalas; and her great-granddaughter, Camden Marie Hontalas.

Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Louis Hontalas.

Jean lived a life defined by service, compassion, independence, and love. From her years as an Army captain and physical therapist to her volunteer work, devotion to her family, love of her dachshunds, and active life in Carmel, she continually found ways to make a difference and enjoy the world around her.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In honor of Jean, the family requests that donations be made to Central Coast VNA & Hospice by clicking on the link below or by calling 831-372-6668.