John Artukovich; Helped Build L.A. Aqueduct

John A. Artukovich Jr., a Los Angeles-area contractor whose work included the Los Angeles aqueduct through the Mojave Desert, the Bunker Hill Redevelopment Project Tunnel and other projects across the United States, has died.

Artukovich died Tuesday at Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Newport Beach of complications following surgery for an aneurysm. He was 72. Artukovich was admitted to Hoag Feb. 13 after being stricken during a business meeting.

Born in Los Angeles to Croatian-immigrant parents, Artukovich lived most of his life in San Marino and Arcadia. His father founded the John A. Artukovich Co., a construction firm, in 1909 and Artukovich had been president since 1952.

Artukovich’s sudden illness shocked his family, who said he had never had to go to a the hospital and was working seven days a week until he became sick. “He was the rock in our family, a role model and a mentor,” said Anita Artukovich, his daughter.

Artukovich went to Loyola High School and Loyola University in Los Angeles. He also served in the Army during the Korean War until he was given an emergency discharge after his father died.

In addition to his daughter Anita, Artukovich is survived by three sons: John A. Artukovich III, Matthew and Michael.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Holy Family Catholic Church at 1501 Fremont Ave., South Pasadena.