On March 24, 2026, John Martin Carabajal left this world to be with the Lord. He is preceded in death by his father, John Sr.; his mother, Candida; his sister, Marilyn; his brother, Tony; Son in law Fred, and his daughter, Rochelle. He is survived by his devoted wife of 73 years, Thelma Carabajal; his children Susan, Celeste and husband Glen, Joe and wife Sylvia, Candy and husband Julio, and Chris and wife Leticia; and numerous grandchildren.

John was born in Ventura, a descendent of the Salinian Indian tribe. In 1950, he served in the Korean War, where he spent 15 months in active duty. He returned home in 1952 and married the love of his life, Thelma. Together, they raised six children and built a life grounded in faith, hard work, and family.

John earned a bachelor's degree in computer science and a master's degree in management. He went on to work for 40 years as a project manager for Computer Science Corporation. His commitment to service extended into the community through the Knights of Columbus, where he rose to the role of Grand Knight. Later, he became a real estate broker and successfully ran his own business in Oxnard.

Above all, John was a man of deep faith. His motto, "never miss a Mass," guided his life. He and Thelma taught catechism, served as Eucharistic Ministers, and ushers at Saint Anthony's Catholic Church for decades. He encouraged everyone—family, friends, and even strangers—to seek a relationship with Jesus Christ. He also led a prayer group at Santa Clara Catholic Church, leaving a lasting spiritual legacy.

John embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved good music, dancing, a well-made drink, and great food—especially when shared at parties, weddings, and family celebrations. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, but his greatest sporting passion was golf. A devoted Dodgers fan, he watched every game he could. He laughed wholeheartedly at the Three Stooges and never passed up a good war or western movie.

His legacy is rich with memories and accomplishments. He built, with his own hands, a swimming pool and jacuzzi that became the center of family life. He loved dining out with Thelma, playing with his grandchildren, and traveling the world. He enjoyed camping with his family—just don't let him feed the bears.

John passed peacefully, surrounded by his wife, children, and their spouses. His family takes comfort in believing he is now in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ. They extend heartfelt thanks to everyone for their prayers and support during this time, with special gratitude to the Veterans Administration for the exceptional care and compassion they provided in his final years.