John William Reika's Obituary
On Wednesday, November 23rd, 2022, John William Reika, devoted husband and father, died at the age of 88. John was born in Riga, Latvia on March 5th, 1934. John and his parents fled Latvia to Germany during WWII when the Russians invaded. In 1950 John and his parents immigrated to the United States.
In 1952 John joined the US Air Force to fight in the Korean War. He also did two tours of duty in Vietnam. John retired from the Air Force in 1972 after twenty years of service. He went on to work for Grumman Aerospace and retired after twenty years.
John leaves behind his beloved wife of 67 years Mirdza, along with daughter Velta and her husband Bill Worley, son Armand and his wife Karen Reika, and son Ron and his wife Monica Reika. John also leaves behind six grandchildren: Shad Worley and his wife Cecilia; Jeremy Worley and his wife Amanda; Starr Worley; Ashley Reika; Barbara and Rebecca Reika. John also leaves behind 5 great grandsons.
John was a true patriot who loved his country. He was very proud of his military service as well as his time working for Grumman and would talk extensively to anyone who wanted to listen about his time in the military and working for Grumman. And a fun fact – John was working for Grumman at Miramar Naval Station (MCAS Miramar) when the original “Top Gun” was filmed which was an interesting experience for him. John also was a licensed Ham Radio Operator.
John will be buried at the Miramar National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please send memorial gifts to the Disabled Veterans Association.
If you wish to watch John's Service, please do so here: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/hgewBr-8o7iUIehfuHubu4Ne5B1bGvV86eCMMvo3STao1B4zyCdjwsQ1tdenbIl6.AkCGIDeeqkmC6_QP
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