John Joseph Dawber

July 4, 1937 — February 5, 2021

John Joseph Dawber, age 83, passed away on Friday, February 5, 2021 in the Seasons Hospice Inpatient Center in Milton, Massachusetts. Born in Boston, Massachusetts on July 4, 1937, he was the son of the late John and Helen Dawber. He was raised in the Roxbury area of Boston and graduated from Boston English High School with the Class of 1955. Following his graduation, John enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving his country.

Upon his discharge from the Marine Corps, John returned home to Roxbury and married his beloved wife, Marilyn Judith Bryant, on October 25, 1962. Together, John and Marilyn made their first home together in Dedham and later moved to Boston. John began working various jobs, both day and night, to support his family, while also taking courses at Northeastern University to earn his bachelor's degree. As John's family grew, he saw the opportunity to move out of the city, settling in the small town of Walpole, Massachusetts in 1974. In the late 1970s, John took a full-time position with the United States Department of Defense, working as a police officer or in other security related positions; first at the VA hospital in Jamaica Plain, then Charlestown Navy Yard in Charlestown, MA then finally at the Watertown Arsenal. He proudly served his country for twenty seven years, ensuring the safety and security of the Arsenal until his retirement in 1996. In retirement he took a jobs for the Radision in the theater district in Boston then finally at Pine Manor College where he tried to give people second chances and ensured the safety of many people.

John was a man who enjoyed keeping his mind sharp and his body active. He was a history buff, and especially loved learning about the history of Massachusetts. His love for history led him to author seven books in his lifetime. He and his wife Marilyn could be found walking all over the place, enjoying the natural beauty that surrounded them. John looked forward to lending a helping hand in his community, serving at one time as the Quartermaster for the VFW on Robbins Rd, also as a Mason at the Azure Lodge in Walpole and a firearms instructor at the Walpole Sportsman's Association for many years. As a skilled instructor, John helped many in law enforcement with their annual qualification, building friendships along the way. While he kept busy, John reserved his autumn Sundays for his beloved New England Patriots, cheering for them in many championship games. Most of all, John loved being surrounded by his family. He shared a deep loving relationship with his wife, Marilyn and always looked forward to visits with his son, daughter, and grandchildren.

Beloved husband of the late Marilyn Judith (Bryant) Dawber.

Loving father of David William Bryant Dawber and his significant other, Onenita Porter, of Michigan and JoAnn Elizabeth Mitulski and her late husband, John Joseph Mitulski, of Walpole.
Cherished grandfather of Evan Dawber and his wife, RyAnne, Hannah Dawber and her significant other, Jake Burmeister, and Connor Dawber.
Adopted father of Stephen R. Mitulski, and father-in-law of Michelle "Shelley" Comeau Dawber.
He is also survived by his grand-dog, Jingle-Joy Mitulski.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend John's Life Celebration on Wednesday, February 10, 2021 from 4 to 7 PM in the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole.

As a result of the ongoing and ever developing health crisis in the world and with genuine concern for the people whom they love, John's family has decided that his funeral service will be private, with interment taking place in Knollwood Memorial Park in Canton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Gift Processing Administrator, 18251 Quantico Gateway Drive, Triangle, VA 22172.

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John Joseph Dawber

July 4, 1937 — February 5, 2021

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