John Lawrence Winchester

WINCHESTER, John Lawrence -- Born March 30, 1928 in Chicago, Illinois, John passed away May 19 with his loving family by his side. He was known as a kind and generous man always wanting to know how he could help. He is survived by Katherine his beloved wife of 17 years, sons Brad (April) and David (Eva), granddaughters Tait and Caroline, niece Judy Stazel, nephew John Winchester and grand nieces Allison Oliver and Robyn Blatt. As a young man John was an avid Boy Scout, achieving Eagle status. He earned an engineering degree from Oklahoma A&M, followed by service in the Army at the Aberdeen Proving Grounds as an ordnance instructor during the Korean War. Following the Army he and his first wife moved to Walnut Creek where he began his business career at Montgomery Wards, earning several 'Salesman of the Year' awards. An entrepreneur by heart, John founded Betterply Business Forms in Santa Clara in the early 70s where he worked up until his retirement. John enjoyed golf, sailing, model trains, Native American and Civil War history and travel throughout the western states. John was always eager to spend time with friends and family, and often hosted exciting affairs. We will all miss him terribly. Services will be held Thursday, May 22 at 11 a.m. at the CHAPEL OF FLOWERS, 900 South 2nd Street, San Jose, followed by burial at the Mission City Memorial Park, Santa Clara.