John Richard Dechert, a devoted husband, father and USMC veteran, passed away peacefully in Temecula, California, on March 30th, 2025. He was 78.

Born in Artesia, California, John was the beloved son of Dean and Louise Dechert. He spent his formative years in Southern California, where he developed a lifelong love for the outdoors and service to others. He attended local schools before continuing on to Cerritos College.

In December 1965, John joined the United States Marine Corps, serving stateside during the Vietnam era. His years in service shaped his lifelong commitment to discipline, perseverance, and community. He was honorably discharged in December 1971.

John met the love of his life, Gloria, on a Sierra Club bike ride. The two married in 1977 and built a beautiful life together, raising three children: Darwin, Bryce, and Elizabeth.

John’s life was defined by his many passions, remarkable skills, and a spirit of adventure that led him to seek beauty in both nature and human connection. He was an avid photographer, capturing compelling images ranging from native birds and flowers to the opening ceremony of the 1984 Olympic Games. He served as a founding board member of his local Inland Empire Photography Group, helping California photographers explore native wildlife and landscapes.

John loved a challenge, whether it was fixing an impossibly broken household device or summiting Mt. Whitney with his best friend Wayne by his side. A proud HAM radio operator, John was also deeply involved with the Sierra Club, California Native Plant Society, and the US Forest Service as a volunteer in the Cleveland National Forest.

His faith was a cornerstone of his life. As a devoted member of Murrieta United Methodist Church, he served as a board member in the 90’s, and he sang in the choir for decades. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, John joined a mission trip to Mississippi, where he dedicated his time and skills to helping rebuild homes for those impacted by the disaster.

John will be remembered for his kind spirit, gentle humor and tireless willingness to help others. At many family Thanksgiving and holiday celebrations, John happily claimed turkey duty, turning it into a delicious centerpiece and a beloved tradition.

He is survived by his loving wife Gloria, their three children, extended family, many dear friends, and members of the communities he cherished so deeply.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the California Native Plant Society in his honor at http://www.cnps.org/donate where the donor can designate the gift as an “honor or memorial” gift and then provide the honoree’s name and who CNPS should notify of the gift.