Jack Griffin, loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away January 16, 2025, at his home due to natural causes. Jack lived a very long and fulfilling life. He leaves behind his children Christine, James and David, and grandchildren Dustin, Rose, Madison, Ellie and Bridget. He was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn of 65 years, his parents and siblings Warren, Gary, Virginia, and Robert.
Jack was born in 1935 in Monterey Park, Ca. He grew up (mostly) in Monterey Park, and Holly Ridge NC. He was the third child of Jack and Myrle Griffin. His father served in the US Army prior to WWII then in the US Navy during WWII. During his father’s deployments for WWII, Jack only saw his father once in 5 years. Jack attended Mark Kepple High School in Monterey Park and was a highly skilled gymnast specializing in the high bar and rings wherein he created a unique release move. He also played trumpet and marched in two Rose Parades. Following high school, Jack attended Pasadena City College, then graduated from Cal State Los Angeles where he earned a degree in accounting that led to a career in the oil industry.
Jack met his sweetheart Marilyn when he was 15 and she 14. It was love at first sight. They were married at age 20 and lived in Monterey Park. Just prior to Jack’s college graduation, Christine was born and after a work-related move to Ojai, she was followed by James and David. Jack was a good provider for his family.
After a year in Ventura, the Griffins bought their first home in El Monte in 1964. Jack and his brothers were proud members of the Buzzards desert motorcycle club. But in 1968 Jack broke his leg during a race. Later after recovering in 1971 the family moved to Canoga Park, followed by another move to Woodland Hills, where the kids grew up and eventually left home. That prompted Jack and Marilyn to purchase their small avocado and orange farm in Fillmore in 1987. They both loved their home and took pride in making it beautiful. Jack enjoyed farm work. Jack and Marilyn also operated a successful eBay business. Together they hosted numerous family gatherings for all occasions that grew love and strong family bonds.
Jack was an extraordinary person, husband, father, grandfather, brother, citizen, Elks member, and friend. We all miss his wonderful sense of humor, many dad jokes, selflessness, and love.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to: Rescue 37, District 37, American Motorcycle Association, at:
Zelle: Sports Committee District 37 AMA Inc or a check made payable to District 37 with R37 in the memo sent to Cynthia Andrews, 22274 Lone Eagle Rd., Apple Valley, CA 92308. Cynthia is District 37’s Treasurer
In Memory of Jack Griffin
For more information about Rescue 37, see: https://www.facebook.com/AMAD37RESQ.