in Needham, Massachusetts in 1933 to his late parents, George and Marion Pope, John grew
up in Newton, as the youngest of five children, and became affectionately known as “Brother”
to his siblings.
John graduated from the Newton High School Vocational School in 1951, where he studied to
be an electrician, before entering the US Air Force that same year. Growing up, and throughout
his life, John loved sports. He played basketball in high school, and was always game to
participate in whatever sport he could, including becoming an avid bowler and belonging to
bowling leagues for many years on Cape Cod. A fan of all Boston sports teams, John and his
brother Fred would have frequent phone discussions about the teams and their playoff
possibilities each year. Optimistic with 2018’s early season, John was hoping for the Red Sox
to go to the World Series this year.
In the Air Force, John was a Master Sergeant, serving for 20 years from 1951-1971. An aircraft
mechanic who worked on F-100 fighter bombers that flew in the Vietnam War, he was always
meticulous about his work. John loved being able to fly in those planes to test out the job he
had just done. During his service, John spent time stationed in Vietnam, the Philippines,
Labrador, the UK, France, and various locations throughout the USA.
Once retired from the military, John worked as a Security Systems Tech for Intercity Alarms,
and then in the LNG Plant at The Colonial Gas Company. On the side, John started a small
business designing window and door screens, which were wired for home alarm systems. He
loved to be busy, and could always be found working on a project around the house.
John was married for 35 years to the love of his life, Sandie Pope. His greatest loss occurred
just 5 months ago when she passed away, and he missed her terribly since then.
John is survived by his brother Arnold Fred Pope, his sons Fred Pope and John Pope Jr, his
step-daughter Amy Hennessey, and his grandchildren Alicia Pope and Ryan Pope. He will also
be greatly missed by his nieces, nephews, and many friends.
In lieu of flowers, please consider thanking our troops in John’s honor by making a tribute gift
to: Operation Gratitude, PO Box 260257, Encino, CA 91426-0257
https://www.operationgratitude.com/make-donation/
A burial at the National Cemetery in Bourne is planned for a later date.
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