Published in the January 8, 2018 edition.
NORTH READING — John F. Canavan, Jr., 92, of North Reading, died at his home, surrounded by his family on Thursday, December 28, 2017. He was the beloved husband of the late Mildred F. (Mara) Canavan.
Born in Wakefield, on June 25, 1925, he was the son of the late John F., Sr. and Ellie (Matson) Canavan. John was raised in Wakefield, and was a graduate of Newman Prep and Northeastern University. John was a U.S. Marine Corps World War II veteran, serving from 1943 to 1946. He was a Sergeant and participated in the occupation of China. He worked as a Civil Engineer for the Commonwealth of Mass. in Springfield, Camp Dresser & McKee Engineering Firm, J.J. Cronin for forty years and also for Heffron Materials and the Town of Andover.
He has been a resident of North Reading for the past 61 years and a member of St. Theresa’s Church, Civil Engineers, The Grandfathers Club, North Reading Loyal Order of Moose, Knights of Columbus and various town committees.
John had great love and commitment to his family. He tirelessly provided both financial and spiritual support to so many throughout his entire extensive family of nine children, 24 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. John enjoyed his time watching his children and grandchildren in all areas of interest from school clubs and sports to horse shows. John was also an avid Red Sox fan and was sure to be seen in town on his daily power walk.
Family members include his loving sons, John F.,III, and wife Stephanie, William and wife Monica, James and wife Beth and the late Michael Canavan; daughters, Carol Green and late husband Robert Page, Nancy Brooks and husband George, Judy Hall and husband Mark, Kathy Sumner and late husband Bill and Patricia Fiore; brothers, Robert and wife Patricia, Michael and wife Susan and the late Thomas and late wife Jacki, late sisters and their late husbands, Kathryn Mayo and Frank, Ellie Tecce and Joseph and Ethel Arsenault. Also survived by 24 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
His funeral was held from the Croswell Funeral Home,19 Bow St., North Reading, on Thursday, January 4, followed by a funeral Mass at St. Theresa’s Church, 63 Winter St. (Rt. 62), North Reading. Calling hours were held on Wednesday, January 3. https://www.croswelfuneralhome.com.
