John A. Fehling was born August 13, 1936, to John and Katherine Fehling in French Camp, California, and raised in the Stockton and Lodi area. He was the eldest of four children. Married to the light of his life, Irene (Gardea) Fehling for over 63 years, they started their family of three children in Stockton, California.John was a California State Park Ranger and derived much pride and satisfaction from his 30-year career. He moved his family to some of the most beautiful parks in all of California, from as far south as Ventura and far north as Del Norte County. John was admired and respected for the work he did as he promoted through the ranks of the department, from Ranger to Superintendent. His son Michael followed in his footsteps. John provided mentorship to new rangers which made it common to have an extra guest at the dinner table.John was an avid hunter and fisherman and passed his passion on to his two sons. Some of his fondest memories were made in the great outdoors with his boys. He was also known as a storyteller who could easily capture the attention of his audience and fully engage them in the tale he was telling. Often, they were tall tales that ended with a punchline that left everyone laughing, even his family who heard the stories multiple times! There was still joy in watching it unfold and the reaction of his audience. He had a profound impact on many people during his lifetime as he played various roles such as coach, mentor, friend, husband, father and Papa. He provided a safe and secure foundation that allowed his family to grow and flourish with the confidence that they could achieve anything they desired.John is predeceased by his parents and two of his siblings, Donald Fehling and Evelyn Hohe. He is survived by his wife, Irene (Gardea) Fehling and their three children, Robert Fehling (Bambi); Michael Fehling (Amber); and Joni Ginno (Bill). In addition, he has three grandchildren, Ryan Fehling, Kaylem Johnston Ginno and Jessica Ginno, and two great grandchildren, River and Pearl Fehling, whom he was fortunate to meet before his passing. Additional survivors are his sister Carol Reiswig (Billy) and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.John passed peacefully on July 23, 2022, surrounded by family. He undoubtedly made a stop at the Rainbow Bridge where his beloved dogs eagerly awaited his arrival. Mandy, his Black Labrador Retriever, was most surely at the front of the pack.Services will be held at a Mass on Friday, August 19 at 11 am at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, 5882 North Ashley Lane, Stockton, CA 95215, followed by a Celebration of Life at the church reception hall at 12 noon. Friends and family are invited to attend one or both remembrances.Thank You for the wonderful journey you led us on Papa, we are forever blessed and grateful.Share your condolences online at NewtonBracewell.com To plant a tree in memory of John Fehling as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('ad-1515727'); });