Can anyone recommend a hotel near the airport? Does not have to be extremely close but perhaps have a shuttle. Will be arriving late in evening (Monday) and staying one more night and then out early on Wednesday. Will only be there for sleeping so doesn't need to be a resort type. Actually, going in for a funeral.

Sorry about your loss. Is the funeral close to the airport? There are a number of hotels close by - Hyatt in Irvine and the Marriott are both close and provide shuttle service.

First of all, our condolences.

If you go to Kayak.com, you can specify a search for lodging --
1) close to Wayne Airport.
2) with an airport shuttle.

Just start typing out "John Wayne" as your intended destination, then your planned dates (I presume soon), and finally click on "Airport Shuttle" as an amenity you require. In a matter of seconds you'll get all places with vacancies sorted by rating, price, or distance.

Try to be kind when people make small talk with the old stand-by, "So, why are you visiting?" They're trying to be nice, so you can be nice in return.

We've stayed at the Irvine Marriott that has a free shuttle service to and from John Wayne Airport.
Sorry for your loss.

Ayers Country Inn & Suites meets all your criteria and is a great hotel. 5 minute shuttle to the terminal.

Ayers gets good reviews here locally.

Thanks everyone and also it's great that you conveyed compassion.