John Arthur Morris

GARDNER - John Arthur Morris, 72, of 59 Moran Street, Gardner, died Thursday, March 4, 2010 unexpectedly at his home. John was born in Gardner on January 24, 1938, the son of the late Kermit and the late Amy (Ericson) Morris. He grew up in Ashburnham and attended Fitchburg High School. He was an Army Reservist from 1955 to 1976 and served as SAM Crewman in Massachusetts and Grand Island, New York where he met his wife. John also joined the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, serving from 1958 to 1963 as Communications Squadron. He earned several commendations, including the Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon and two Good Conduct Medals. During his time in the military, John resided in Dayton, OH for several years. He also resided in Winchendon and Baldwinville before moving to Gardner in 1975. Many years ago, John worked as a truck driver and briefly owned his own business, the former Morris Oil Company in Baldwinville. John worked as a repair technician for oil burners at People's Fuel in Gardner from 1977 until his retirement in 2000. He was well known for his skill, sense of humor and attentiveness to his clients' needs, and was often specifically requested by clients to fix their burner. John enjoyed spending time with the German Shepherds he bred for many years at Morris Kennel, and riding his Harley-Davidson Motorcycle. He leaves four sons, John B. Morris of Orange, David A. Morris of Athol, Kermit J. Morris of Ayer, Paul R. Morris of Leominster; one daughter, Cynthia L. Spofford of Gardner; three sisters, Nancy Robichaud of Spring Hill, Florida, Marilyn Hartley of Gardner, Sylvia Hamel of Athol; his daughter in-law, Donna M. Jalbert of Orange; his close friend, Charles E. Duplese of Gardner; eight grandchildren and many great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and step-siblings. In addition to his parents, John was also predeceased by his wife, Margaret R. Barwell, on March 14, 2000; and by his stepmother, Violet Alice Rollins. Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 11, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. in the Mack Funeral Home, 91 Vernon St., Gardner. Burial will follow in Wildwood Cemetery, Gardner. Calling hours will be held Wednesday, March 10, 2010 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Mack Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made in his memory to American Cancer Society's New England Division Office, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. $(document).ready(function(){ });