John Sturgis, age 83, of Tolland, CT, formerly of Stoneham, MA, peacefully passed away at his home on Tuesday, September 21, 2021. Born on February 21, 1938, in Lawrence, MA, he was the son of the late Guy and Marjorie (Washburn) Sturgis. For over 58 years, John shared a loving marriage with his wife, Paula (Calzolari) Sturgis, who survives him.
Besides his beloved wife Paula, John Sturgis is survived by his children, J. Scott Sturgis and his wife Janet of Tolland, CT, and Jeffrey Sturgis of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, FL. He was a cherished grandfather to Erika Sturgis, Nicholas John Sturgis, Breana Sturgis, and Gavin Sturgis. He also leaves behind his brother, Robert Sturgis of Simsbury CT, and his brother-in-law, Douglas Whitehouse. John was predeceased by his parents, Marjorie & Guy Sturgis, his step-father, Loring Cushman, his sister Nancy Whitehouse, and his sister-in-law, Judy Sturgis.
To all who knew him, John Sturgis was a truly wonderful man, remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, and loyal friend. He possessed a remarkable ability to offer insightful guidance to anyone in need. For 35 years, John dedicated his professional life to Polaroid as an Engineering Manager, contributing his expertise to the development of the iconic Polaroid film.
Outside of his career, John was a passionate golfer, enjoying the sport well into his later years. In his younger days, he was a car enthusiast, a passion he gracefully shifted when his first son, Scott, was born, trading his cherished Corvette for a more family-friendly vehicle. John was also incredibly handy and talented, constantly engaged in countless projects throughout his life.
A graduate of the University of Maine, John Sturgis spent many fulfilling years in Sabbathday Lake, New Gloucester, ME. Initially enjoying his parents’ cottage, he and Paula later built their dream home there. Sabbathday Lake became the backdrop for treasured memories with family and friends, filled with lobster feasts, boating adventures, tubing, swimming, fishing, and simply enjoying quality time together. Affectionately known as “Pops,” John especially loved being with his family and watching his grandchildren grow.
In accordance with John and Paula’s wishes, a private celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date. There will be no calling hours or formal service at this time.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in John’s memory to ECHN, Visiting Nurse and Health Services of CT, 8 Keynote Drive, Vernon, CT 06066.
Online condolences may be shared at www.pietrasfuneralhome.com.
