Lynne & John Schlenker
Johnnie Ray Schlenker, who along with business partner Anet Carlin founded The Great American Melodrama in 1975, died August 1 at the age of 87.
A native of New Mexico, he earned degrees from Eastern New Mexico University and pursued acting at PCPA in Santa Maria. He also founded the theatre department at Righetti High School.
Schlenker is survived by his wife Lynne, four children and 11 grandchildren. According to theatre staff, Lynne Schlenker plans to continue guiding the legacy of The Great American Melodrama.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. on October 16 at New Life Community Church in Pismo Beach.