John Reuben Hamon passed away on September 28, 2009 surrounded by his loving family. He was born September 4, 1921 in Oktaha, Oklahoma to Simon and Annie (Howell) Hamon. He grew up in Wasco, California, graduated from Wasco High school and attended Bakersfield Junior College. He served his country in World War II as a B-17 Bomber pilot with the 452nd Bomb Group. On his 22nd mission over Germany, his plane was shot down on Christmas Eve 1944. On New Years Eve, he was captured and became a prisoner of war. He married Eva Joan Costa in November 1950. He farmed in Delano, California for many years before moving back to Lompoc in 1958 and joined the Pipe Fitters Union. He worked in new construction until his retirement in 1985. He served 28 years in the U.S. Air Force Reserves, retiring as a Major . He and Eva enjoyed many years traveling in their RV's, crisscrossing the country, sightseeing, and attending 20 years of reunions with his 452nd Bomb Group .

He is survived by his wife, Eva, sons John Jr. (Marjorie) of Paso Robles, Mark (Cheryl) of Atascadero, Greg (Margie) of Lompoc, and daughter Linda Robinson of Lompoc. He leaves behind 8 grandchildren Jessica Martinez and John Hamon III(Shiloh), Nicole and Lisa Hamon, Patrick and Kyle Robinson, Danielle and Matthew Hamon, two great grandchildren, Madalyn Martinez and John Reuben Hamon IV. He is also survived by his sister, Lila Janos of Lompoc and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Evelyn Costa and Gloria Cramer and son in law Wes Robinson.

A Mass to celebrate his life will be held on October 7th at 10:00 AM at Queen of Angels Catholic Church. Donations may be made to Lompoc Hospital Foundation .