John Alan Finzel

John Alan Finzel, 73, beloved husband, stepfather, uncle and friend, passed away at his home on  Monday, August 5, 2019. John was born on Saturday, June 1, 1946 in Allegany Maryland. He spent most of his adult life in California and New Mexico.

John served in the army in the Vietnam war. He went into the Army February of 1966. He served one tour in Vietnam. He proudly served in the 11th Armored Calvary Division. He mustered out of the Army in 1969.  

He had other occupations such as a truck driver and a Deputy Sheriff in California before moving back to New Mexico where he worked for the US Postal service and retired from there. 

John had a passion for his Harley Davidson and was a member of the Old Coots on Scoots.  

John was an avid bowler. He bowled 300 games and received many awards. He was the president of the Belen bowling association until its demise. Then joined the United States bowling congress in Albuquerque where he served various positions such as vice president and director which were 2 elected positions. He volunteered for bowling tournaments. He was a mentor to other bowlers. He bowled in 23 national tournaments. He was 2nd Vice President of the Central New Mexico USBC.

John also loved bingo. John attended bingo tournaments in Las Vegas, Nevada starting in 2002, with his last bingo tournament July 2019. John helped out for many years as a balloon chase driver for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. 

John was a huge Steelers fan (Go Steelers) and loved watching Star Trek.

John had a passion for cats especially his Christopher Q cat and Jade. He loved his family and friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Lena Finzel; his brother, Michael Finzel; and his sister Marla Jo Wonn. John is survived by his wife Sharon Finzel; two stepsons Mike and Carlos Ruiz; and nephews and nieces.

A Celebration of John’s life will be held Thursday, August 15, 2019, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at FRENCH- University. At 12:30 John will be escorted to his final resting place at Sunset Memorial Park, 924 Menaul Blvd NE. with a reception to follow at FRENCH- University. The family is asking those who plan to attend the reception to please bring a tray of snacks, food, etc., from Walmart, Smiths, Albertsons, etc. Drinks will be provided.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.