John Garton

John Howard Garton, 76 passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025 in Missoula, Montana, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on March 10, 1949, in Los Angeles, California, John lived a life full of passion, curiosity, and kindness.

John is survived by his beloved daughters, Tamara McDermott (TJ) and Shannon Garton; his cherished grandchildren, Tammy and Matthew McDermott, and Tessa and Luke Johansen; and his sisters Marilyn Amato (Carl) and Betty Ann Metz (Ted). He was also especially close to his nephew, Billy Amato, and is survived by many extended family members who reside in Southern California. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lois and Cecil Garton.

John spent most of his adult life in El Segundo, California, where he became a fixture at the El Segundo Recreation Park tennis courts. It was there, on the courts he loved, that he met his future wife, Rhonda Dornblaser. The two married in 1976 and welcomed twin daughters, Tamara and Shannon, in 1977.

A lifelong tennis enthusiast, John worked as a tennis instructor, competed in numerous tournaments, and proudly earned a trophy from the USTA. He shared a special bond with many on the court, especially his longtime tennis friend, Bill “Red” Hutch.

John graduated from Daniel Murphy Catholic High School in 1967 and went on to earn a BA in History from the University of Southern California in 1973. Throughout his life, he held a variety of roles—working in banking, substitute teaching, and sharing his passion for tennis with students of all ages.

A collector at heart, John found joy in gathering coins, sterling silverware sets, clocks, tennis rackets, statues, and colorful rocks. He was an enthusiastic sports fan who never missed watching a Dodgers, Lakers, or USC game, cheering on his teams with lifelong loyalty.

John also had a soft spot for animals, especially cats. Over the years, he shared his home and heart with many feline companions, whose quiet presence brought him comfort, laughter, and joy.

John’s family extends heartfelt thanks to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, for their exceptional care, which extended his life, and to Big Sky Hospice of Missoula for their compassionate support in his final days.

John will be remembered for his gentle spirit and his love of life’s simple pleasures. His strength, kindness, and passion live on in all who knew and loved him.

A service will be held at a later date at Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, California. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Mayo Clinic or Big Sky Hospice of Missoula.