Passed away on December 25, 2015 at the age of 83 years. He is survived by his wife, Irene Forsman of Washington, DC; a sister, Mary Brown of Adamstown, MD and a brother, Ralf Lee Hartwell, Jr. of Peabody, MA. John was best known for his unfailing sense of humor. No services are planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Lung Association .