John Charles Macinata, born June 26, 1956, passed peacefully on September 2, 2025 at St. Joseph Memorial Hospital, in Eureka, at the age of 69. Born in Arcata to Charles and Marie Macinata, John spent most of his life in Humboldt County, attending kindergarten through 12th grade in Arcata. At the time of his passing, John was a resident of McKinleyville, where he lived for nearly fifty years.

John’s career was in the automotive industry and began with training in Arizona, post high school graduation. Upon his return to Arcata, he worked for over thirty years servicing the Humboldt community as a valued employee/manager at Sequoia Auto, Arcata Auto and Napa Auto Parts in Eureka. John earned his reputation as a great parts man. It was not uncommon for John to receive calls from folks across the country seeking his help to locate a particular car part; a challenge he greatly loved and welcomed.

To say that John cherished time with his friends is an understatement. He loved music and enjoyed attending concerts; he knew every person in every band, including the lead singer. To settle a bet, friends would call John in the middle of the night, knowing that he could identify the singer in a specific song. In addition, John had a passion for racing; he frequented Redwood Acres, driving that #10 Pinto car, riding in the bomber car with Marc (even when it flipped), and flying to Nascar races with Jim and all the guys. He recently bought a red 1966 Honda Dream and soon upgraded to a Yamaha trike.His dear friend Randy, helped John get and keep them in top shape. John was thrilled to ride, he also enjoyed cruising in his Chrysler Crossfire.Fun times spent with treasured friends filled his life and gave him joy: jamming with Denise,Steve and friends.Salmon fishing with his buddies, going to baseball games and sprint car races, barbecuing and sitting around the fire with Louie and the gang.Many good times and friends were made at the Moose Lodge in McKinleyville, including returning home one evening with a shaved head! John loved them all.

John leaves behind his wife, Debbie, of forty years, friend and brother, Mike, who stayed by his side from the beginning of his disability to the very end of his life, sister Marianne (Amy), nieces Sarah and Cassie, Aunt Bernadine, and his cherished, close friends: Randy, Leonard, Ron, Dennis, and John and all who knew him well. He loved each one of you dearly.

Deep gratitude is extended to a group of wonderful medical professionals who provided years of support and outstanding care for John. These include Doctor Ha, Doctor Shaundra, and Doctor Fischbein at Stanford Medical Center. Thank you to Doctor Matthew, an incredible nephrologist, for being a great friend to John and keeping him going all these years. Lastly, special thanks to all the dialysis nurses at Fesenius Kidney Care in McKinleyville for providing John with years of exceptional care, especially Dusty, Danielle, Pam and Ann.

A celebration of John’s life will be determined.

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