John William Shelton

John William Shelton, age 56, died unexpectedly on January 17, 2019, of complications from acute pneumonia. He is survived by his five siblings --- Becky Ebbert, Peter Shelton (Terry), Wendy Kuwata (Kai), Carrie Carroll (Brent), and Kimberly Shelton. John was also a loving and doting uncle to Michael, Jack, and Molly Shelton; Katelyn and Kerry Kuwata; and Blake, Lauren, and Devon Carroll.

John was born in Pasadena, California, to William and Nancy Shelton on November 25, 1962. He grew up in nearby San Marino as the fifth of six children – and a considerable sense of humor! John and his neighborhood friends had a fascinating world of dig yards and boyish pranks.

John graduated in 1981 from San Marino High School. He attended California State University, Los Angeles, majoring in Speech Communication & Theatre Arts. John soon discovered a passion for improvisational comedy and went on to study for several years with The Groundlings, an LA-based launching pad for great comedic actors. John also followed in his father’s footsteps and linked up with a Pasadena insurance agency, Flexible Insurance Plans. He later moved with them to Long Beach.

Over the years, John worked as a voiceover talent and character actor. He appeared in numerous films, television productions and commercials. Besides acting, John also performed stand-up comedy at several Los Angeles area comedy clubs.

John loved surfing and traveling. He also truly enjoyed the ocean, the mountains, and the great outdoors.

Memorial donations can be made to Operation Amped, a 501(c)(3) that uses the healing potential of surfing for the benefit of seriously ill, injured, or disabled U.S. military veterans and their families. Or, if you would rather, please make a donation to the charitable organization of your choice in his name.