John Urbanic

October 9, 1925~July 1, 2012

John Urbanic, father and local music education legend, passed peacefully July 1st, after eighty six years living life to the fullest.

Raised during the Great Depression in an orphanage in Michigan, John was a mentor to the other boys, became an Eagle Scout, and left to serve in the US Army during World War II. Following the War, John pursued his undergraduate and graduate degrees in musicology, paying his tuition working as an award winning dance instructor. Completing his studies, John drove cross-country and began his career as a music teacher in California.

Over the next 50 years, John taught in Santa Cruz County public schools - his dedication to his students making him one of the best-respected music educators in the State. Area residents will remember the spectacular, multi-elementary school Christmas and Spring concerts he orchestrated during the 1960's and 70's. Others will fondly recall receiving music instruction in a converted school bus John retrofitted to keep music education alive during an era of budget cuts to the Arts - the "Band Buggy". 

John Urbanic's love of music was exceeded only by his love for his family. He was preceded by three close sisters and a favorite brother-in-law. He is survived by five children, six grandchildren, and one great grandchild who will remember each day, his serious lessons, silly songs, and many happy days shared at home and during travels worldwide.

A memorial service will be held July 21st at Resurrection Church in Aptos. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Santa Cruz County Symphony's Youth Education Program, 307 Church Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060.

Rest easy Dad.  Love, your kids, Bobby, David, Jimmy (Jami), Maureen (Fernando), and Kathleen (Ted), your grandchildren Carli (Derrick), Megan, Nathan, Benjamin, Ethan, and Trey, and your great grandchild Charlie.

For the complete article see the 07-07-2012 issue.

Click here to purchase an electronic version of the 07-07-2012 paper.

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