John Riella was born on September 20, 1950, in Stockton, California, and passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, in Ripon, surrounded by his loving family.
John resided in Manteca until 2011 when he moved to Ripon. He was a proud husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose presence filled every room he entered.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jacque Riella; his children, Jolene Peters (Stephen), Janelle Schwarz (Jan), and Jiana Riella Boudreaux (Jeremy); and his four cherished grandchildren, Jack, Luke, Elle, and Rinette, who brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his brothers, Jim Riella (Liz) and Rick Riella (Mikki), along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved him dearly.
John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ida Riella, and his sister, Rinette Riella.
John grew up in Manteca, attended St. Anthony's Catholic School and Manteca High School then went on to graduate from Fresno State. Shortly thereafter, he began his career with Cherokee Freight Lines, starting at the bottom of the ladder and working his way up through dedication, integrity, and hard work. After an impressive 54-year career, he retired as Vice President of the company, a role he held with great pride. Following retirement, John returned to his roots, and reinvigorated his desire to begin farming; something that brought him both purpose and passion.
John had always enjoyed his years playing softball on Dutra Farms and Riella Farms, where he was known as an amazing second baseman. He looked forward to his Tuesday morning breakfasts with the guys, a tradition he truly cherished. A natural entertainer and true people person, John loved socializing and hosting friends and family. He was especially proud of his personal bar; affectionately named "Jack's Bar" where laughter was always plentiful and everyone was welcome. John genuinely wanted people to enjoy themselves and feel good in his presence. He knew no strangers and made lasting connections wherever he went.
John was devoted to his grandchildren and rarely missed their events, always showing up with pride and encouragement. He loved his famous quote about the "three F's in life - Family, Friends, and Frank Sinatra," often adding a fourth: Football. A loyal San Francisco 49ers fan, he never missed an opportunity to cheer them on. He left a legacy of wisdom imparted on his family within business, life, and relationships. He lived by the belief that everyone should be treated fairly and with respect, often saying that we always have something to learn from one another. He truly loved people and people loved him immensely. John's legacy lives on through the family and friends who were blessed to know and love him.
P.L .Fry and Son is honored to be serving the Riella family. A service will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at P.L. Fry and Son Chapel, 290 N. Union Rd., Manteca, Ca. For direct condolences to the family or to watch the service live visit www.plfryandson.com
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 , Bristol Hospice, 374 E. Yosemite Ave., Merced, CA 95340 or VFW Ripon, P.O. Box 604. Ripon, CA 95366.
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Wednesday, January 14, 2026
