John Hummer

April 20, 1930 - November 29, 2022

John Sylvester Hummer II April 20, 1930 – November 29, 2022

John Sylvester Hummer II, age 92, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, in his home, in Walnut Creek, CA. John was born in Evanston, Illinois on April 20, 1930 (Easter Sunday) to Charles and Grace Hummer. John is survived by his two loving daughters, Katherine Jackson (Katie) and Diane Hummer (Dede); his sonin-law, Peter Jackson; his four grandchildren, Brett Jackson (Darby), Lindsey Jackson Gillespie (Aaron), Drew Jackson (Catherine), Connor Jackson; his greatgrandson, Rhone Jackson; and his beloved and devoted partner of 34 years Rose Marie Kellams. He is also survived by his many nieces and nephews.

John was predeceased by his Father, Charles A. Hummer; his Mother, Grace Pattinson Hummer; his brothers, Charles Hummer and David Hummer; and his sister, Marilyn Everitt.

John graduated from Lake Forest High School in 1948. He attended Lake Forest College and the University of Illinois and was a proud member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. In 1954, John left the cold Midwest and made his way out to San Francisco. He started his career in radio, but found his success in commercial real estate, working early on with Ritchie & Ritchie and a long career with Grubb & Ellis. In 1960, he married Joanne Elliott and in the following years had their two daughters. In 1968, they moved to Piedmont where he was honored by the opportunity to be involved with the volunteer, Reserve Piedmont Police Department. He moved back to San Francisco in 1980—to the city he loved. He treasured the cool climate and his views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. He also cherished his times with friends at his favorite watering holes-- the iconic Tadich Grill and Perry’s, among others.

John was a master of entertaining! His ability to tell colorful, hilarious jokes and stories was like none other. “Hum,” as he was called by many, kept family and friends laughing throughout his life. He was an incredible history buff, a lifelong conservative Republican; always supporting charitable causes and political campaigns. He had an extensive collection of ‘toys’—World Wars I and II tanks and airplanes, military memorabilia, and antique cars and trains—always a kid at heart! He had a love of books, old movies, and records, listening to the piano, and attending the theatre. John was a true sports enthusiast. He was an avid San Francisco 49ers fan, and rarely missed a game . . . mostly on TV. John was extremely proud of his grandchildren’s participation in sports throughout the years. He was overjoyed by their commitment and dedication to the sports they played; he was one of their biggest cheerleaders. He was especially thrilled when his grandson played for his beloved Chicago Cubs. John also liked to travel. He and Rose Marie traveled extensively around the world where they enjoyed meeting new people, and visiting historical locations and different cultures.

John will be fondly remembered as a hardworking, fun-loving, gentle, and devoted partner, father, grandfather, and greatgrandfather. He was simply the best and he loved his family more than anything in the world. He will forever be in our hearts!

The family would like to acknowledge the wonderful caregivers who provided their sincere love and compassion for John, over the past year.

A celebration of his life will take place near his hometown outside of Chicago in the Spring.