I borrowed this photo from Facebook, where John was very active.
John was hugely talented - an artist, illustrator, graphic designer, and writer. Many of you have probably seen his "A Baby Boomer's History of Guilderland" website and books. In his later years he became a prolific author, penning a wide range of novels and stories. I didn't know John well in high school; I remember him as the lanky guy in the back of the classroom, legs outstretched, sketching action figures on his brown paper book covers. About a decade ago I interviewed him for something I was working on, and he shared how the encouragement of a 7th-grade art teacher led him into an art career. He has generously given our class permission to use his photos and artwork for our upcoming reunion. So sorry he'll miss it. Rest in peace, John.
John and I met in 9th grade English, eventually dating for awhile. We lost contact after college but reconnected online over twenty years ago and have been good friends ever since. He was a special man and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. I'm happy that he was a part of my life and I'll treasure my memories of him, his art and his books. He was one talented guy! Rest in peace, John. 😢
John and I were in art classes together. I was always humbled by his talent. A very creative spirit. Sad to hear Of his passing.
Condolences to his wife and sons.
This was a shock. I am so saddened to learn of John's passing. He was so full of life and enthusiastic about everything he did. We connected several times recently during the writing of his Guilderland books, it was such fun being involved and included. He certainly was a man of many talents and eager to share. I couldn't find an obituary...does anyone have details or know what happened? He deserves more than a blank space on the website. God Bless you John.
John was a close friend all through of High School. We spent many hours together after school playing sandlot baseball, touch football and numerous other adventures. During all that time I can't remember a cross word, an argument or a bad memory. He was always thoughtful, encouraging, and sympathetic as his many posts on this site will attest. One measure of a persons life is the impact they have on those left behind. He will be sorely missed and the world is a lesser place without him. The one solace I have is that he lived a full life and made the most of the time he had. Well done buddy, rest in peace.
I am very much saddened and shocked to hear of John's passing, even though he had predicted this happening for some months now. I vividly remember John as a quiet classmate, always with head down sketching during class, in some of my junior high classes. He obviously had the talent to become a prolific artist and writer. I will always be grateful to John for stirring up a multitude of memories from Guilderland days and communicating via facebook. He had quite a following. I will miss his posts, his history, his rants and his praises. Thank you, John, for collecting photos and memories in your books. Rest in Peace.
Vicki Meade
I borrowed this photo from Facebook, where John was very active..jpg)
John was hugely talented - an artist, illustrator, graphic designer, and writer. Many of you have probably seen his "A Baby Boomer's History of Guilderland" website and books. In his later years he became a prolific author, penning a wide range of novels and stories. I didn't know John well in high school; I remember him as the lanky guy in the back of the classroom, legs outstretched, sketching action figures on his brown paper book covers. About a decade ago I interviewed him for something I was working on, and he shared how the encouragement of a 7th-grade art teacher led him into an art career. He has generously given our class permission to use his photos and artwork for our upcoming reunion. So sorry he'll miss it. Rest in peace, John.
Deborah Gogol (Deer)
John and I met in 9th grade English, eventually dating for awhile. We lost contact after college but reconnected online over twenty years ago and have been good friends ever since. He was a special man and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. I'm happy that he was a part of my life and I'll treasure my memories of him, his art and his books. He was one talented guy! Rest in peace, John. 😢
Ann Eastman
John and I were in art classes together. I was always humbled by his talent. A very creative spirit. Sad to hear Of his passing.
Condolences to his wife and sons.
Sharon Mastrianni (Kumiszcza)
This was a shock. I am so saddened to learn of John's passing. He was so full of life and enthusiastic about everything he did. We connected several times recently during the writing of his Guilderland books, it was such fun being involved and included. He certainly was a man of many talents and eager to share. I couldn't find an obituary...does anyone have details or know what happened? He deserves more than a blank space on the website. God Bless you John.
Bruce Weber
John was a close friend all through of High School. We spent many hours together after school playing sandlot baseball, touch football and numerous other adventures. During all that time I can't remember a cross word, an argument or a bad memory. He was always thoughtful, encouraging, and sympathetic as his many posts on this site will attest. One measure of a persons life is the impact they have on those left behind. He will be sorely missed and the world is a lesser place without him. The one solace I have is that he lived a full life and made the most of the time he had. Well done buddy, rest in peace.
Aino Parlo
I am very much saddened and shocked to hear of John's passing, even though he had predicted this happening for some months now. I vividly remember John as a quiet classmate, always with head down sketching during class, in some of my junior high classes. He obviously had the talent to become a prolific artist and writer. I will always be grateful to John for stirring up a multitude of memories from Guilderland days and communicating via facebook. He had quite a following. I will miss his posts, his history, his rants and his praises. Thank you, John, for collecting photos and memories in your books. Rest in Peace.