John W. "Jack" Dunfey, age 89, of Tewksbury, MA, formerly of Lowell, East Longmeadow, and Lakeville, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025.
Born in Lowell, MA, he was the son of the late Walter and Elspbeth (Sutherland) Dunfey. Jack was the beloved husband of the late Kathleen "Kay" (McGarahan) Dunfey, with whom he shared 60 wonderful years of marriage.
After graduating from Lowell High School, Jack enlisted in the U.S. Navy and proudly served his country during the Korean War aboard the USS Norris. When he returned home, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Lowell Technological Institute and later received an MBA from Western New England College.
Jack had a long and fulfilling career as an engineer and manager in technical design, utility services, and customer service. His business highlights included testing spacesuits for the Apollo missions and managing the municipal gas and electric group in Middleboro, MA.
Jack was endlessly creative and active. He continued riding his bicycle into his 88th year. His hobbies included wood carving, painting, basket weaving, and playing various musical instruments. He served on the Tewksbury Finance Committee and was a past president of the New England Public Power Association.
Jack and Kay found great joy in participating in LIRA (Learning in Retirement Association) at UMass Lowell, where they made lasting friendships. Together, they explored the United States, Canada, and Europe. Jack was a natural conversationalist, always eager to hear others' stories. He was known for his kindness, politeness, and gentlemanly manner —with just enough mischief to keep everyone smiling.
Above all, Jack cherished time with his family. He is survived by his devoted son, James Dunfey, and his wife, Jean, of Wilmington. He was the adored "Grampa Jack" to Kevin Dunfey and his wife, Libby, of Haverhill; Patrick Dunfey of Tewksbury; and Brian Dunfey of Wilmington. He also leaves his brother-in-law, Frank McGarahan, and his wife, Sophie, of Illinois, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.
In addition to his wife, Jack was predeceased by his son, John W. Dunfey Jr.; his sister, Janet Knoll; his sister-in-law, Maureen Barter, and her husband, Clint.
Memorial contributions in Jack's memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project., PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 or at: Online Donation Link
On Tuesday, July 1, 2025 all are welcome to attend his calling hours from 3 - 5 p.m. at Tewksbury Funeral Home, 1 Dewey Street, Tewksbury, MA 978-851-2061. His funeral service will take place in the funeral home at 5 p.m. after the calling hours.
Private burial will be held at St. Mary Cemetery.
His funeral will be live streamed - https://www.facebook.com/tewksburyfuneralhome/videos
Live Streaming Link