Obituaries

John Richard McPherson, affectionately known as “Pappy,” or “Pops,” passed away on September 17, 2025, in Fremont, California, at the age of 85.

John was born in Topeka, Kansas, and grew up in Salina and Wichita before joining the United States Navy. He proudly served for six years aboard the USS Kitty Hawk, where he was promoted to Air Traffic Controller. Following his military service, John eventually settled in the Bay Area of California. He dedicated 27 years to BART, beginning as a Train Controller and working his way up to Central Supervisor and later Central Manager. His leadership and work ethic left a lasting mark on the agency and those he worked alongside.

John’s life was filled with adventure and a deep love for family. He married his first wife, Connie, in Hayward, becoming a father to Sharri and later welcoming sons Darrell and Shawn. In 1979, he met his beloved wife Wanda, with whom he built a life with in Fremont. Together, they shared many wonderful years filled with family gatherings, trips, and cherished traditions.

A proud Raiders fan, John was a longtime season ticket holder at the Oakland Coliseum, rarely missing a game. He was also passionate about Harley Davidson motorcycles and classic cars, spending countless hours restoring vehicles and riding alongside his boys. He loved taking his boat out on Lake Don Pedro and treasured time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Known for his sense of humor, sharp wit, and his trademark saying “Ah, bullshit,” John’s stubborn yet loving spirit left an impression on everyone who knew him.

John is survived by his wife, Wanda McPherson; his sons Darrell (and wife Lila), Shawn (and wife Sherry), daughter Sharri, Debbie (and husband Mike), Donnie (and wife Eve), Diane (and husband Bob). He leaves behind many grandchildren, including Danielle, Savannah, Jessika, Justin, Amanda, Melissa, and Matthew, along with twelve great-grandchildren, and his faithful dog, Molly. He is also survived by his nephew Billy (and wife Karen, sons Ian and Connor), and many other extended family members including cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who loved him dearly.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Fremont Chapel of the Roses, 1940 Peralta Blvd, Fremont, California. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the same location. Immediately after the service, a reception will be held at Shawn and Sherry's home in Newark.

For family and friends in the Kansas area, there will be a Viewing at Downing & Lahey Mortuary, 6555 E Central Ave, Wichita, KS 67206, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Following the viewing, a graveside service will take place at 12:00 p.m. at White Chapel Memorial Gardens, 1806 N Oliver Ave, Wichita, KS, where John will be laid to rest alongside his mother, father, sister, and extended family.

John will be remembered as a hardworking, loyal, and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His humor, resilience, and proud presence will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to his caregivers for their compassion and support during his final years: Lilibeth, Marites, Arian, Camille, Danniele, Dennis, Mavel, Thelma