John L. Sloas was born January 1, 1918 in Marston, Missouri one of eight children born to R.E. and Effie (Eiceman) Sloas. John grew up in Missouri and owned and operated his own farm until he joined the US Army during World War II. He saw combat in the Philippines serving from 1943 until 1946 earning the grade of Technical Sergeant and his Honorable Discharge. In 1946 he came to California and never left. John continued to farm, but also worked for the Kern County Sheriffs Office from 1958 until he retired in 1978. John enjoyed serving with the American Legion for several years. During his retirement years, John was active in the community until his health began to fail. John was preceded in death by his Mom, Dad, two sisters and former wives, Lora and Mable. He is survived by his current wife, Ouida; brothers, Harold, Robert, David, and Billy Sloas; sister, Nadine Kelley; son, John Sloas, Jr. and his wife Nickie; 2 daughters, Marjorie Siemens and Delores Hambaroff; sons, Richard VanZandt and wife Sharon and Fred VanZandt and wife Mary Ann; 20 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren and 12 great great grandchildren. Services under the direction of Peters Funeral Home will be held Friday, July 27 at 11am at the Congregational Church of Shafter. Pastor Mike Kotrla will officiate and interment will follow at Shafter Memorial Park. Visitation will be Thursday, July 26 from 2pm to 8pm at Peters Funeral Home. Please sign John's guest book at www.goldenvalleymemorialcare.com.