John Robert McCrea

John Robert McCrea was born on October 4, 1927 in Billings, Montana to Carol and Patrick McCrea. John’s passion for music and the arts began in youth with his first piano lesson at age 6. Mesmerized by the orchestra instrument demonstration at age 8 and hearing the clarinet for the first time, John fell in love with its wood sound. Music, life, and the arts permeated throughout the rest of his life experience.

From that moment on he pursued his passion for music graduating with a degree from the University of Montana, Missoula. Throughout high school and college he was recognized as a leading musician, playing first chair and soloist. John established his first Jazz/Big Band which was honored with awards and was highly acclaimed.

John, while teaching in Charlo, Montana, met his wife Gentria in 1952, in Ronan. It was love at first sight. Five months later they were married. After the birth of their second child, John was offered a teaching position in San Diego and relocated. He taught Music in the San Diego City Schools for the next 40 years. In his career he taught all ages from elementary orchestra, High School, and was nominated and elected to lead All City Orchestra for three years in a row.

John and Gentria had three more children after moving to San Diego. John played in the San Diego Symphony, San Diego Union Concert Band, was President of the Musicians Union, and an avid leader in his church community - St John of the Cross where he served in many capacities for over 50 years alongside with his wife.

McCrea Music Company opened in 1980 on Allison Ave in La Mesa, CA. Here John continued his legacy and passion for music through teaching hundreds of students, young and adult, providing musical instruments, and promoting musical programs throughout San Diego.

John was loved by all he encountered with his smile and warmth. He loved life, his wife, children, music, sports, the arts, and all the people he met!

John is preceded by his wife Gentria, daughter Carol Adine, four living children; Susan McCrea, Gentry & Lori McCrea, Mary Sotelo, and Jamie & Tina McCrea, and 10 grandchildren.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. John of the Cross Catholic Church in Lemon Grove at 10:00 am on Wednesday, December 21st with a reception to follow in La Mesa.

Blessed are those who have died in the Lord; let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with them.

Eternal rest grant unto John, O Lord.

And let perpetual light shine upon him.

May he rest in peace. Amen.

May his soul and the souls of all the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, Rest in Peace. Amen.