John Zaitz, 81, of Canyon Lake, California sadly passed away on May 20, 2024. John was born to Albert and Emma Zaitz on February 3, 1943, in Los Angeles, California.
After high school, John generously served as an Army military police officer and received his CPCU after attending Los Angeles City College, as well as Van Norman School of Law, and went on to work for the Automobile Club of Southern California as an Underwriter and Reengineering Manager for 45 years.
John utilized his talent and skill as a four-year board member and president of the Los Angeles chapter of the Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriters.
John was a man who loved his community. So much so that he served on the Canyon Lake Chamber of Commerce and as a board member and president of the Canyon Lake Property Owners Association.
John also shared his time and energy as a Canyon Lake City Council member, serving two years as mayor, and actively participated as chairman of the Canyon Lake Public Works Committee and member of the executive boards of Riverside Conservation Authority, Western Riverside Council of Government, and Public Agency Risk Sharing Association of California.
John also dedicated his time to community involvement. You could find him barbequing at Fiesta Day, running booths at Oktoberfest, playing the Tin Man in Wizard of Oz, or helping out at the Marine Corp Band Concert.
John was a devoted husband to his late wife, Cathy, and a loving father to his two kids and their families: John (Mingbi) and Kristen (Liam).
John was also a beloved brother to his siblings: Albert (Karlyne), Fred (Andrea), Robert (Donna), and Joseph (Sherry), with whom he shared a special bond and many cherished memories.
John was known by his family for his sense of humor, generosity, and unwavering dedication.
John has made lasting friendships and touched the lives of those he knew. His commitment to his work, community, and family was admirable, and his legacy will live on in the lives he touched.
John’s wishes were for cremation. The family will have a Celebration of Life on July 27, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that you make a donation in John’s name to the American Cancer Society.
