Juan "Johnny" Cantu
July 13, 1946 - February 22, 2017


Johnny was born on July 13, 1946 in Mission, TX. He moved to Florida at the age of 16 to work; in 1966 he was drafted into the Army where he served in Vietnam and was honorably discharged in December of 1967. For his service, Johnny was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, Air Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, 1 Overseas Bar, and a Purple Heart.

In November 1968, Johnny met Florence Bass in Apopka, FL. He made a great impression on her, so great in fact, that she introduced him to her daughter Sandra "Sandy" Bass. On June 6th, 1970, Johnny and Sandy married and began their journey together for the next 46 years. They had two sons, Aric (Patty) and Shaun (Jamie), and five grandchildren Zachary, Ashtyn, Nathan, Mason, and Mackenzie .

Johnny attended Mid Florida Tech in 1970 and became a certified welder. In 1978 he returned to Mid Florida Tech where he studied to become a machinist. Johnny held several jobs in the fields he'd studied before joining Walt Disney World as a machinist in central shops in 1981; he was employed with them for 14 years.

Hunting and fishing were some of Johnny's favorite hobbies. He loved to camp and spend time outdoors enjoying time with family and friends. Some of his most treasured memories were teaching his sons to hunt, fish, swim, and water ski. Despite a hunting accident in 1994 that left him paralyzed, Johnny's outlook on life never changed. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports, perform in plays, play their musical instruments, and he loved to hear the stories his sons told him about their jobs and their hunting and fishing trips. Johnny also loved spending time with Sandy. They spent their mornings having coffee and reminiscing about things they did or something funny the kids he loved did as small children. They also enjoyed going to dinner or just watching television together.

Johnny is survived by the love of his life, Sandy, his sons, daughters in law, grandchildren, brothers Arturo and Oscar, sisters Mary and Minnie, many nieces and nephews, and extended family.

In lieu of flowers, donation may be made in Johnny's name to the Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA). Their website is floridagulfcoastpva.org and their address is :

15435 N Florida Ave
Tampa, FL 33613
813-264-1111
Celebration of Life Luncheon

Sunday March 19, 2017 1:00-3:00 PM

Honor Guard Service at 1:30PM

Cantu Residence
650 Baxter Rd
Kissimmee 34747