John David Gignac Sr.

John David Gignac, Sr, 88, of Williamsburg, VA passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, February 13, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his son, Mark Stephen Gignac and his parents, George and Beatrice Gignac.

He was a resident of Williamsburg since 2004, and previously resided in Southborough, MA. He was born on June 20, 1934 in Franklin, NH.

John attended Tilton Prep and graduated from Bowdoin and MIT with a dual BA/BS degree in Physics and Chemistry. Following graduation he served in the Army for 2 years where he was stationed in Germany with his wife of 65 years, Joanne Tartaglino. Additionally, he received a Master’s in Chemistry at Northeastern University.

John worked at Polaroid Corporation for 39 years holding various roles, and retired as Director of Manufacturing and Product Development. He was a member of the Polaroid Retirement Association.

John was a devout Catholic and became an active member in many organizations within St. Bede Roman Catholic Church. He was a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus, Young at Heart Club, Ciao in Virginia, and the Rotary Club in Southborough.

John was a family man and loyal friend. He enjoyed traveling, wine and his beloved New England sports teams especially the Patriots and the Red Sox.

Ever the optimist and always encouraging, John loved his family and lived his life to the fullest. He will always be remembered for his tender heart, unending patience, adventurous spirit, dry sense of humor and that twinkle in his eye. He was blessed with a gentleness that made his presence joyful and comforting.

John is survived by his wife, Joanne; his children, John David, Jr (Lori), Michele Endorf (Doug), Gina Harvey (Ray), and Lauren Gignac-Grennon (Terry); 10 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; and his siblings, George Michael Gignac, Jr, Frederick Gignac and Carol Bergeron.

A visitation will take place at St Bede Catholic Church, 3686 Ironbound Rd., Williamsburg, VA, on February 23rd from 11am to 12 noon. Mass will take place at 12 noon, followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions in John’s memory to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nelsenwilliamsburg.