John Victor Hydar died on Nov. 19, 2019, at age 85. Born on July 31, 1934, in Milwaukee, Wis., he was the second son of Victor Hydar and Marie Halbach Hydar.

John studied for the priesthood at St. John’s Seminary in Camarillo and was ordained on April 30, 1960. He had been looking forward to celebrating his 60th year of priesthood next spring. During his priesthood, John served at parishes in Long Beach, Simi Valley and Ventura.

He left active priesthood in 1969, and in 1971 he married Roberta Egerer. The couple lived for a while in Santa Barbara while John worked as a rehabiliation administration specialist. John received his master’s degree in this field from USF in 1984.

The couple lived in LaCrescenta for 20 years, but after retirement they moved to Ventura. In retirement, John performed weddings and funerals for those of all faiths.

John and Roberta were active members of CORPUS, an organization seeking to allow married priests to serve in the Catholic Church. John was editor of CORPUS’ magazine until last year.

In 2010, John, along wth fellow priest Keith Forster, was called to the active priesthood by St. Anthony’s Community in Santa Barbara, where he served until his death.

John was preceded in death by wife Roberta, and brothers Bill, Bob and Jerry. He leaves behind two sisters-in-law, Danielle Hydar and Raquel Hydar; beloved nephews Christopher (Krista), Matt (Theresa), Brian (Michelle), Bill (Avece), Daniel (Rhonda), Robert (Heidi), Patrick Hydar and Randy Egerer (Bonnie); and niece Mary (Kevin). He is also mourned by long-time friend Ingrid Scott and the many whose lives he touched.

A Celebration of Life mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 29 at St. Anthony’s Community, Santa Barbara, 2300 Garden St. (entrance is off Garden on Pueblo Street.)