John Joseph Badely's Obituary
John Joseph Badely, Jr.
Beloved husband, father and grandfather John Joseph Badely, Jr. passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 4 with his wife and family by his side.
Born in 1932 in Oakland, CA, John was raised by his father, and graduated from Fremont High School. He served four years in the United States Air Force, working as a ground to air radio operator in Panama during the Korean War. After his time in the military, he worked for 35 years as a machine operator at Owens Illinois glass company in Oakland.
Once he retired, John volunteered for three years at the San Leandro Police Department, before making his final and favorite career move, to the Oakland Athletics, where he worked as an usher for 14 years.
John loved many things; his family, the Oakland A's, his immaculately cut lawn, baseball, and people. He knew everyone in the neighborhood, and loved nothing more than taking a walk, visiting with whomever was outside, and handing them a schedule for Oakland A's games. John also loved music and he loved to sing - his coworkers nicknamed him "Singing Sam." He sang his favorite song, "When I Fall in Love," at many anniversary parties and weddings, including his daughter Nancy's.
John loved his wife's cooking, and maybe because he loved it so much, he also loved exercise. Biking was one of his favorites. During the gas shortage, he rode his bike to work nine miles each way.
However, John's two greatest joys were his love of God, and his family. He would always say God is good. John loved his Lord, and his faith was strong. Even at the Coliseum, he said he had a purpose, being there to share his faith. John knew in whom he put his trust, Jesus Christ. We know that John is in heaven, passing out A's schedules to the angels.
Lovingly known as Dad, Grandpa and Jedo, John's favorite activity was spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was always so proud of every single one of their accomplishments. John is survived by his wife of 61 years Nina, his daughters Teresa and Nancy, his son in laws Brian and Robert, his five grandchildren Brian Jr. (Aliya), Alex (Katrina), Sam (Fabi), Emily, and Sarah. We are grateful to all of our friends and family for their prayers, support, and love during this time.
A memorial service honoring John’s life is scheduled for Monday, December 26 at 1pm, in the Williams Chapel at Redwood Chapel Community Church, 19300 Redwood Rd, Castro Valley. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org) would be greatly appreciated.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?
