John Charles Hoenstine

John Charles Hoenstine, 79, of Brookline, New Hampshire, passed away on August 8, 2026, comforted by the love of his family and with his wife, Christine, by his side. Born on April 1, 1947, in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, John was the son of the late Dr. Arthur C. and Dorothy Y. Hoenstine. He made his home in Ellwood City, Philadelphia, and Doylestown, Pennsylvania, before settling in Brookline, New Hampshire, carrying with him his love of photography and family wherever he lived.

John studied photography at Rochester Institute of Technology before serving in the United States Navy. During his military service, he studied Thai at the Defense Language Institute and served as a translator in Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia during the Vietnam War.

While building his career in photography after the Navy, John met his wife Christine Normart while working at Quaker Photo in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. John and Christine were married on November 11, 1978, at Arch Street Meeting House in Philadelphia. They shared their life with their two children, Elizabeth and James, as well as with many beloved pets over the years. 

John started his business John Hoenstine Photography. He was deeply devoted to the art of black-and-white photography and was known for his ability to capture the character and humanity of his subjects. John opened The Studio Gallery to the public on Friday evenings, helping clients and the community understand and appreciate the medium. Throughout his career he photographed many notable people, and his portrait of James Michener remains on display at the Michener Art Museum in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. John also generously volunteered his talents to the Delaware Valley Siberian Husky Rescue, combining his love of photography with his love of animals. 

After retiring, John and Christine moved to New Hampshire to be closer to family and enjoy their role as grandparents. He especially treasured being "Daddy Pop," a name chosen in honor of his own grandfather. He delighted in sharing special moments with his grandchildren, Jackson and Leona, and enjoyed many peaceful walks on the trails with his dog, Jif.

John will be remembered for his creativity, quiet generosity, and his love for family and friends. 

He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Christine; his daughter, Elizabeth Hoenstine; his son and daughter-in-law, James and Casey Hoenstine; his cherished grandchildren, Jackson and Leona; his dear sisters, Virginia Badger and Susan Frooks; and his nieces and nephews, Laura, Sam, Arthur, and Ande. 

Memorial Service
Saturday, October 24, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.
Doylestown Friends Meeting
95 E. Oakland Avenue
Doylestown, PA 18901

Parking is not available at Doylestown Friends Meeting. Guests are encouraged to park at the Bucks County Free Library at 150 S. Pine St.

Reception
Following the service, all are welcome to gather for light refreshments and a display of John’s photography from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. at:
Michener Art Museum
138 S. Pine Street, Doylestown, PA 18901

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in John’s memory to the Delaware Valley Siberian Husky Rescue, Inc. or the Alzheimer’s Association.