Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — John R. Comeau, Jr., age 76, of Wilmington, formerly of Methuen and Lawrence, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born in Haverhill, Massachusetts, on January 7, 1950, John was the cherished son of the late John R. and Rita A. (Boulanger) Comeau. He was raised and educated in Haverhill and graduated from Haverhill Trade School with the Class of 1968.
Following graduation, John proudly answered his country’s call by enlisting in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, entering active duty in February 1969. During his service, he was stationed aboard the USS Bainbridge and earned the distinction of becoming a Golden Shellback, an unofficial naval honor bestowed upon sailors who cross both the Equator and the International Date Line simultaneously. John served both overseas and stateside with honor and dedication, receiving numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Stars, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. He was honorably discharged from active duty in November 1970 and continued his service in the United States Naval Reserve until October 1974.
One of the greatest blessings of John’s life began with a dare. While out with friends at the Surf Dance Hall on Salisbury Beach, he spotted “his sunshine,” Lorraine Lavoie, from across the room. Encouraged by his friends to ask her to dance, John took the chance that changed his life forever. The two were married on June 5, 1971, and recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary—a remarkable milestone built on love, devotion, and partnership.
John and Lorraine began their life together in Haverhill and then were living in Methuen, where they welcomed their beloved daughter, Jennifer. They later lived in Lawrence before returning to Methuen to continue raising their family.
Family was always John’s greatest priority. He was a devoted husband, an extraordinary father, and later a proud and loving grandfather. John and Jennifer shared an especially close bond and a lifelong love of music. He supported her unconditionally, encouraged her to pursue her dreams, and was always her biggest champion. When Jennifer married Anthony Ricupero, John welcomed him into the family as a son.
John treasured his role as “Pepe” to his grandsons, Denizio and Edward Ricupero. He adored them beyond measure, proudly attending their school activities and sporting events and celebrating every accomplishment with immense pride and joy.
Prior to his retirement, John enjoyed a long and successful career as a Test Inspector with Raytheon Company. His strong work ethic, integrity, and friendly personality earned him the respect and admiration of both colleagues and friends.
Music brought John endless happiness throughout his life. He was an avid fan of The Beatles, Roy Orbison, and Elvis Presley, and in his younger years was a talented drummer. He also enjoyed collecting movies and CDs, often sharing his favorite films and music with family and friends.
John had a kind heart, a warm smile, and a generous spirit. He enjoyed traveling with Lorraine and his family on many vacations where he made people laugh with his dry sense of humor. He was the type of person who would do anything for anyone, and his loyalty and friendship touched countless lives.
John will be remembered as a devoted family man, a proud veteran, a loyal friend, and a genuinely good man whose love and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
John was the beloved husband of Lorraine (Lavoie) Comeau; the devoted father of Jennifer Ricupero and her husband, Anthony, of Wilmington; and the loving “Pepe” of Denizio and Edward Ricupero.
He was the dear brother of the late Barbara Brunelle and her late husband, Robert; Judy Cesati and her late husband, Robert, of Florida; Kathi Hill of New Hampshire; Norma Walsh and her husband, James, of Texas; and Ann Walsh and her husband, Richard, of Texas.
John was also the cherished brother-in-law of Carole Foster and her late husband, John, of Methuen; John and Denise Lavoie of Andover; the late Eli Lavoie and his wife, Kathy of New Hampshire; Giselle Lavoie-McCann of New Hampshire; Richard and Nancy Lavoie of New Hampshire; and Normand Lavoie and his companion, Rose Gallo, of Methuen.
He is further survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends, all of whom will miss him deeply.
Family and friends are invited to gather for Visiting Hours on Monday, July 6, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Avenue (Route 62), Wilmington. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Dorothy’s Church, Main Street (Route 38), Wilmington, followed by Military Honors in recognition of John’s faithful service to his country.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s memory to the VA New England Healthcare at: https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/52253675. Please select VA Boston Healthcare System and choose Brockton Based Recreation Therapy.
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