John Charles Cios of Lompoc died Saturday, May 24, 2008 at the age of 80.

John was born July 2, 1927 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to John and Nellie Cios. He joined the merchant Marines during World War II and later joined the U.S. Air Force and served during the occupation of Germany. He worked as an air traffic controller in Saudia Arabia, England, Germany, Korea and Japan. Following his retirement from the Air Force, he was employed by ITT at Vandenberg Air Force Base.

A graduate of Allan Hancock College, he received his bachelor's degree in Social Science from Chapman University and a master's degree in Public Administration from Golden Gate University.

A resident of Lompoc since 1967, John was a member of the American Legion and the Lompoc Valley Art Association. He loved attending concerts at the Arlington and Labero theaters in Santa Barbara and enjoyed his extensive classical music collection.

John is survived by his wife of 54 years, Aiko Cios of Lompoc, his sons Christopher Cios of Richmond, Virginia, Charles Cios of Palmdale and Theodore Cios of Lompoc; seven grandchildren, four great granddaughters and two great-grandsons. He was preceded in death by his sister Lottie Hamaday, brother, Stanley Cios and great-grandson, Anthony Cios.

At his request, no services will be held and memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Arthritis Foundation Living Memorial Program, Santa Barbara County Branch, 2942 DelaVina St., Santa Barbara 93105.

Cremation arrangements are in the care of Starbuck-Lind Mortuary.