John Southworth

John Southworth, 95 and a long time resident of Burbank since 1951, died on November 8 of multiple organ failure. Mr. Southworth was an engineer who worked in the aerospace industry for Lockheed, Rockwell, and others. He was also an avid history buff and was especially interested in Death Valley and the first travelers there in 1849. An active member of the Death Valley ‘49ers, he would visit the valley often, tracing the route of those first to pass through. He published many articles for various magazines concerning old west characters, lost mines, and other period pieces. He also wrote several books on various topics including the treks of the Death Valley ‘49ers. In 2000, he was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Helen Southworth and is survived by two sons, John Southworth of Santa Monica and David Southworth of Leesburg, Virginia, five grand children and five great grandchildren.