John Griffin Passes Away

John J. Griffin, 92, of Danvers, formerly of Ipswich, Reading, and Melvin Village (N.H.), passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 21.

Born and raised in Reading, John was a proud U.S. Army Air Corps Veteran of World War II. He served as an Aerial Armorer Gunner with the 15th Army Air Force. He flew 50 missions as a Gunner, and was awarded the European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal with one Silver and two Bronze Battle Stars. He received his Honorable Discharge at the rank of Staff Sergeant in October of 1945.

Prior to his retirement, John owned and operated Roger A. Reed, Inc. Specialty Wax Manufacturing in Reading. He was a benefactor to the LaSalette Missions Seminary in Ipswich; and was a member of St. Katharine Drexel Parish in Wolfeboro, NH; and St. Agnes Parish in Reading. He was also a benefactor to the Libby Museum in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire.

John was the ultimate prankster, who loved to plan elaborate tricks on his family and friends. He also loved taking care of his home and yard.

John is survived by his adoring wife of 67 years, Priscilla (Loring) Griffin; one daughter, Patricia Griffin of Danvers; and two sons, Michael Griffin of Bourne, and Peter Griffin and his wife Gail of Ipswich. He is also survived by his brother, Robert Griffin of Reading and his late wife Dorothy; eight grandchildren, three great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Agnes Church, 45 Woburn St., Reading on Saturday, Feb. 24 at 10 am, followed by Military Honors. Burial will be private. Visiting hours will be at the Douglass, Edgerley & Bessom Funeral Home, 25 Sanborn St., Reading on Friday, Feb. 23 from 4-8 pm.

Contributions in John’s memory may be made to St. Agnes Parish, 186 Woburn St., Reading, MA 01867; or St. Katharine Drexel Parish, P.O. Box 180, Wolfeboro, NH 03894; or LaSalette Missionaries, Attn: Brother Robert Russell, 85 New Park Ave., Hartford, CT 06106.