Obituary of John McKenna

John McKenna, age 76, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2018 surrounded by family and friends. He was the son of George and Madalyn McKenna of Hope Ranch who predeceased him.

John is survived by Holly Cowper McKenna, his beloved wife of 46 years, and by Martha Saxe, his first wife with whom he had three children: Deborah McKenna, Craig McKenna (wife Keti) and John McKenna, Jr. He was the proud grandfather of Alex and Jack McKenna.

John had a great personal style and a keen eye for beauty and design. He surrounded his homes with colorful gardens and unique landscapes. His talents led him to a working adventure with his brother who developed an ultrasonic Watch Cleaning Machine at McKenna Labs. Eventually, he became a developer, and Realtor of Santana properties until he retired.

Tennis, golf, and mean games of ping pong were threaded through John’s life. He loved sport, the camaraderie with good friends, and good stories. He knew every junk food establishment in corners of every town and loved his hot fudge sundaes.

He was a music aficionado who shared his passion for sound in his beloved Music Room. His tastes varied from Opera, Dvorak, Coltrane, Ellington to Willie Nelson. John was a man who lived well, laughed often and was much loved.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00pm on May 19, 2018 at All Saints by the Sea, followed by a reception. If desired, in lieu of flowers, support of Santa Barbara Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital, The Music Academy of the West, New House or your favorite charity is appreciated.

Arrangements made by McDermott-Crockett Mortuary.