John Knowles Probst, 89, passed away June 2, 2024, surrounded by his family at Renown Hospital in Reno. Born June 12, 1934, to Mae and Edmund Probst in South Bend, Indiana, John’s journey began in the Midwest. His formative years were spent in South Bend, where he cultivated his love for music and education. Summers and vacations were spent at “The Farm” in Sturgis, Michigan, where there was endless fun on the river.
After graduating from Notre Dame, he made his way to California where he earned his master’s degree in music and teaching credentials, embarking on a career teaching in Oakland and Quincy from high school through college. As an educator, he touched thousands of lives, focusing on English and Drama. His dedication extended beyond the classroom as he tirelessly worked to provide musical opportunities and programs for his community. John was particularly fond of helping aspiring actors and musicians prepare for auditions. In addition to teaching responsibilities, he was an organist and choirmaster at St. Francis of Assisi in San Francisco and the Oakland Cathedral. John and Dorothy also provided for many foster children in Oakland and a group home in Quincy.
John’s passion for storytelling, humor, and his genuine nature endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Beyond his role as an inspirational teacher, John was a talented author, composer, and pianist, with a wide array of interests ranging from UFO research to English culture and the mysteries of the JFK files.
Between Notre Dame and California, just after the Korean War, John was drafted into the Chaplain Corps. He served his country with distinction, helping Catholic priests run the myriad services providing aid and comfort to soldiers. His time of service was a source of many “fish out of water” stories.
John is survived by his children Winifred Wheelan Flint, Jennifer Probst Hilderbrand, Mark Probst; their spouses Neal Flint, Jeffery Scott Hilderbrand, Deborah Brand Probst. He also leaves behind a host of grandchildren: Hannah Flint, Gabriella Grace Flint, Noah Flint, Haily Probst, Emerson Gourley, Asa Gourley; great-grandchildren Aleah Ariza, Chloe Ariza, Gemma Ariza. Surviving relatives include his sister Cynthai Probst Haggerty; brother Joseph Probst; Joe’s wife Barbara, along with nieces, nephews and their children, who held a special place in John’s heart. John’s legacy is further enriched by the love and support of his late wife Dorothy Canevaro Probst; brother Edmund Probst; sister Mary Gail Probst, and his beloved son Michael John Francis Probst. Though preceded in death by these beloved family members, John’s memory will be cherished dearly by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A memorial service celebrating John’s life will be held June 15 at St. John’s Church in Quincy, CA. In honor of his passion for music, donations can be made to the Reno Pops Orchestra, PO Box 20952, Reno, NV 89515. Condolences may be sent to his family, addressed to Jennifer P. Hilderbrand, 316 California Ave., #310, Reno, NV 8909.
The family has provided the following schedule of events surrounding John Probst’s celebration of life:
- 9:00 a.m. Open casket viewing at Blair Mortuary (392 Lawrence St., Quincy).
- 10:30 a.m. Rosary service at St. John’s Church (176 Lawrence St., Quincy).
- 11:00 Funeral service/mass at St. John’s Church.
- Head to the cemetery immediately after the funeral service for the graveside service.
- Back to St. John’s Reception Hall for celebration of life.
