John Paul Pitchess passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, at his home in Newport Beach, California. He was 83 years old. Just days before his death, John celebrated a joyful weekend surrounded by family, encapsulating the love and laughter that defined his life.
Early Life and Education
Born on March 21, 1942, in Kansas City, Missouri, John was the son of Athena and Peter J. Pitchess. His father, an FBI agent, later served as Sheriff of Los Angeles County from 1958 to 1981. Shortly after John’s birth, the family relocated to Southern California, where they established their permanent home.
John graduated from Arcadia High School in 1960 and later attended Pasadena City College, graduating in 1962. He continued his studies at the University of Southern California (USC), earning a Bachelor of Science in Business in 1965 and a Master of Business Administration in 1967. He was also an active member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity during his college years.
Family and Career
John’s lifelong partnership with his wife, Wendy Marquand, began when they were both students at Arcadia High School. Their relationship blossomed when John’s brother, Andy, arranged a date for them while at Pasadena City College. They married in 1965 and welcomed their first child, Peter John Pitchess II, in 1967. Their family grew with the addition of daughters Julie Secrist Browman in 1969 and Kathleen Pitchess O’Connell in 1975.
In 1972, the couple moved to Orange County, settling in Turtle Rock, Irvine, where they raised their children and fostered a strong sense of community. John spent his professional life in the insurance sector, co-founding several commercial insurance brokerages, including Pitchess & Perricone Insurance and Pitchess Insurance Associates. He concluded his career at EPIC Insurance in Irvine.
Passion for Sports and Community Engagement
Sports were a significant passion for John, who supported both USC athletics and the teams his children played on. He devoted countless hours to coaching various sports, including baseball, basketball, softball, and soccer. His reputation as a compassionate and encouraging coach allowed him to form lasting friendships with players and their families.
As a fan, John was a fixture at University High School events and USC football games, where he held season tickets for over 40 years. His love for the game extended to hosting memorable tailgates, which became a staple among friends and family. In his later years, his enthusiasm shifted to supporting his grandchildren, attending their games with the same passion he showed for his children.
John was also an engaged member of his community, belonging to the Noble Vikings of Orange County and participating in El Viaje de Portola, where he often competed on the bocce court. He cherished the friendships developed through these organizations and enjoyed many rounds of golf at Aliso Viejo Country Club.
In addition to his community involvement, John was a dedicated supporter of Hoag Hospital and the Harbor Area Boys & Girls Club. After 59 years of marriage, he devoted himself to caring for Wendy during her battle with Alzheimer’s disease. She passed away in August 2024, and John now reunites with her in eternal peace.
John is survived by his children, Peter Pitchess (Teri), Julie Secrist Browman (Taylor), and Kathleen O’Connell (Michael), as well as eight grandchildren: Ford Secrist (Maddy), Jack Pitchess, Siena Secrist, Katie Browman, Sadie Pitchess, Preston Pitchess, Logan O’Connell, and Caiden O’Connell.
A service honoring John’s life will take place on December 21, 2025, at Pacific View Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hoag Hospital in John’s name.
