John W. Lynch

John W. Lynch, 90, passed away peacefully at his home on November 18, 2025. Born in Pepperell on January 28, 1935, he was the son of the late John and Charlotte (Preston) Lynch. John grew up in Pepperell alongside his two sisters and graduated from Pepperell High School in 1953 before serving in the United States Air Force from 1954 to 1958. Following his military service, he attended Lowell Technological Institute.

John began his career as a meat cutter at the A&P, where he worked for many years. In 1979, he joined the Pepperell Water Department as Superintendent, a role in which he served for 21 years. His steady leadership oversaw significant growth and modernization of the town’s water system. Deeply committed to his community, John also served on numerous town committees, including the Board of Health, and was a member of the Board of Selectmen from 1998 to 2007. During his three terms, he played a key role in establishing the Pepperell Senior Center, a project he remained especially proud of. John also volunteered his free time to serve as the caretaker of St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Pepperell for many years.

In 1984, John married Joanne (Skelton), and together they shared more than four decades of partnership, including winters spent in Pompano Beach, Florida. John had a lifelong love of horse racing and owned several harness racehorses, traveling often to follow the sport. A talented carpenter with a Massachusetts construction license, he restored multiple homes throughout Pepperell and contributed to many local projects. Remarkably, he continued working on roofing jobs well into his mid-eighties.

John’s big personality made him the heart of every gathering. His unmistakable laugh, shock of white hair, and lively humor were trademarks to all who knew him. He was generous with his time and talents, always ready to lend a hand, and was a steadfast source of support for his family, friends, and community.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 41 years, Joanne; his sister, Barbara Migneault of Hudson, NH; and his four children, all of Pepperell: Debra Koivu and husband Ron; J. Michael and wife Patricia; Kerry Parker and husband James; and Jeffrey and wife Susan. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Marjorie Shubley; stepson Russell Tetreault; grandchildren Andrew Koivu and Alyssa Tetreault; great-granddaughter Ava Elise Proulx; and nephew William Shubley.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to calling hours at McGaffigan Funeral Home, 37 Main St., (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA on Monday, November 24th, from 4–7 PM. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Tuesday, November 25th, at 10 AM. Burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Pepperell.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Sisters of the Holy Cross, 365 Island Pond Road, Manchester, NH 03109.