John Michael Comiskey, a resident of Old Lyme, CT. for thirty-four years and recent resident of Mystic, CT., died peacefully in his home on August 29, 2004. He was 78.
John was born in Dover, MA. on April 11, 1926 where many of his family still reside. He was the son of Mary and Edward Comiskey. John graduated from Dover High School in 1943 where he was valedictorian of his class. He received a degree in engineering from Holy Cross College in Worcester, MA. followed by his Masters in Electrical Engineering from University of Connecticut in Storrs. John also served three years in the United States Army during his college years. After completing his education he moved to Connecticut where he began a lifelong career working for the Department of Defense.
John was employed as a physicist / engineer at the Naval Underwater Systems Laboratory in New London, CT. in the design and development of submarine antennas for almost 50 years. He made significant contributions to all phases of submarine design from the early submarine and aircraft antennas to the present day complex multifunctional satellite antenna systems. John received many rewards including the Order of the Decibel Award from the Navy for his technical excellence and the Submarine Electromagnetic Systems Department Sail Award for his outstanding design efforts involving many antenna systems, which are installed in all United States submarines today.
Throughout his career and continuing into his retirement John was an active member of the community, including being a member of the Old Lyme Lions Club and volunteering for the TVCCA.
John married Myrna, his beloved wife and best friend of 36 years, on July 20, 1968. They built a home together in Old Lyme, CT. where they raised their family and resided until moving to Mystic, CT. in 2002. John is survived by his wife Myrna; his daughter and son-in-law, Sondra and Martin Griswold of Old Lyme; his step-daughter Elizabeth Mitchell of Old Lyme; and three grandchildren, Bryan Giordano and Heather and Eric Mitchell. John was also blessed with many wonderful friends for whom he and his family are forever thankful.
John was predeceased by his loving parents; his brother Ted; and his sister Mary.
John will forever be remembered for his kindness, patience and love. He was a friend to all those who knew him and will forever be held in our hearts.
A memorial service will be held in celebration of John’s life at 10:00am September 7, 2004 at Christ the King Church in Old Lyme, CT. His burial will be held in Dover, MA.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Hospice of Southeastern Connecticut, P.O. Box 902, Uncasville, CT. 06382.