John William Dacey

Today we mourn the recent loss of our brother, John William Dacey, who passed away on July 30 at 3 a.m. after a short illness.

He was born on January 3, 1955, at Santa Monica Hospital and died at the age of 66. “Get Your Kicks On Route 66”—he liked to sing that since he had made it that far, and used to always say stay groovy and keep the faith.

He was an original Palisadian who grew up playing in the canyon, going to the beach and walking up to the center to go to the Hobby Shop. There were pollywogs in Temescal Canyon back in those days. And then there was Mr. Zsabo and the Bay Theater … and other things.

John went to see The Beatles. John was quite a character who had a great sense of humor and an unrivaled collection of books, including a great number on WWII where his father flew B-24 Liberators and his uncle was a tail-gunner for the B-17 Flying Fortress.

In 2007 John was able to visit Pearl Harbor to pay his respects to those who lost their lives there so many years ago.

John attended Marquez Elementary School, Paul Revere Jr. High School and Palisades High. He was also an Explorer at the WLA Police Station and attended courses at Santa Monica City College.

He spent several years as a security guard, and later his love of comic books and collectibles made him a perfect manager for many years at Hi De Ho, and his sense of humor was known far and wide. He seemed to know a lot about everything … maybe it’s because of all the books.

He enjoyed auto racing, soccer (Go Crystal Palace) and football. He wasn’t a big Dodgers fan as of late. He also loved the kitties—the kitties, especially Mama cat who came and brought the kittens and put them under the house one night. The kitties are still wondering where he went.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” Psalm 116. I still can’t believe that he is gone … maybe later. He will be sorely missed by all.

John was preceded in death by his parents, William Francis Dacey, and his mother, Donna Sahlen Dacey, as well as his eldest sister, Elizabeth Jane Eister.

He is survived by his sisters, Kathleen and Mary, along with several family members and close friends.

No memorial arrangements at this time.