Board Members

In Memoriam

The Pajaro Valley Health Care District (PVHCD) is deeply saddened by the passing of our past chairman, John Friel. Friel resigned from his board position effective March 19, 2024. He passed away peacefully on March 21, 2024 surrounded by family.

"It’s difficult to express the amount of gratitude we all feel toward John," said Stephen Gray, Watsonville Community Hospital and PVHCD CEO. "When the county asked him to lead the district, following its inception in 2022, John didn’t hesitate. He could have just decided to enjoy his retirement, but that’s not John Friel. He brought more than 50 years of experience as a nurse and as a healthcare executive to get the district off the ground, and ensure its financial stability and long-term sustainability. His commitment to our community never waivered.”

Friel was a steadfast advocate for patients throughout his adult life, beginning as a licensed vocational nurse, then a registered nurse, serving both in hospitals as well as two years with the nursing corps at Travis Airforce Base, where he worked with wounded patients coming in from Vietnam. He carried that conviction of helping people into his many leadership roles at several hospitals across California, and ultimately at Watsonville Community Hospital, when he became CEO in 1991. Friel helped secure FEMA funding with the help of Senator Diane Feinstein to build Watsonville Community Hospital’s current facility following the 1989 earthquake. Friel’s extensive healthcare experience and his servant leadership style helped launch the Pajaro Valley Health Care District and return the hospital to non-profit community ownership.

The Administrative Board Room at Watsonville Community Hospital was dedicated to Friel during a small gathering with his friends and family on March 19, 2024, just before his passing. Friel joined virtually from home. His smile and good-natured spirit will forever be with us.