Juan Daniel Stopier

Juan Daniel Stopier was born January 24, 1952, in Wichita Falls, Texas as the eldest son in the Stopier Family. He is preceded in death by his beloved “Momma” Tomasa Jaramillo and younger brother, Policarpo. He is survived by his sisters Rosa Castleberry, Patricia Lopez and youngest brother Felipe.

Juan spent his teenage years in various areas of Los Angeles, California. His family moved to National City in 1971. Later he made his home in Lemon Grove, California with his wife Julie Stopier.

Growing up, Juan was a volunteer fire fighter for the California Conservation Camp Program. He served his country proudly when he joined the United States Marine Corps in 1972. After his military service, Juan “John” worked in various occupations but the job he loved the most was as an Electrician. He enjoyed making the “lights come on”. 

After a serious, and almost fatal, motorcycle accident, John was seriously injured. Doctors predicted he would spend his life in a wheelchair. But if you knew John, he never gave up. His life changed when John found golf as his rehabilitation therapy.  Between one-handed golf and JJ’s games and practices-John was an active and productive member of his community.

After his cancer diagnosis, John was unable to actively participate in sports, but that didn’t stop John from enjoying his grandson Jimmy John Greene “JJ” play baseball and football. John was at every practice and game his grandson played rooting him on with his famous saying “he got a piece” with every foul ball. He also enjoyed picking up his grandchildren from school whether driving them or walking with them, they all were best buddies.

John is leaving behind his precious wife of 32 years, Julie, his daughter Adriana Stopier Hillsman. Grandchildren Rocky, Alyssa, Jamie, Jimmy John, Solay, Soraya and great grandchildren Khalil and Fredie. He also leaves behind his cherished nieces and nephews; they will miss him dearly and never forget his presence and influence in their lives.

A Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2024 from 4pm - 7pm at Legacy Funeral and Cremation Care, 7043 University Ave., La Mesa, CA 91942.  Graveside services will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024 at 12 Noon at Holy Cross Cemetery, 4470 Hilltop Dr., San Diego, CA.