John Hartford Obituary

John Hartford, age 57 of Sherman, died peacefully on April 15th after a courageous battle with throat cancer. John was born in Santa Monica, Calif. He was the son of the late Huntington Hartford and Marjorie Fitzgibbon. He was the great-grandson of the founder of the A&P grocery chain. He is survived by his sisters, Oonagh Jacobsen and Juliet Hartford; his brother, Peter Fitzgibbon; his mother, Marjorie Fitzgibbon; as well as many good friends, including his former wife, Kathleen Hartford. He studied piano, four years, privately with Julliard professors, Sylvia Rabinoff and Herbert Stessin. His musical education continued with harpsichord studies under Igor Kipnis. He went on to record Bach's Goldberg Variations. He was employed by the Music Learning Center of Danbury, where he derived great joy from teaching. In 1977, he experienced a revelation in Christ, which guided the rest of this life. After the Savior Himself, JS Bach held first place in his heart, followed closely by Shakespeare, Luther, Lincoln and Plato. He spent many hours in study and reflection of their works. All of his life he was an adventurer and athlete. He traveled extensively through Africa and South America. He was an avid hiker, tennis player, rock and ice climber. Services and a celebration of his life will be held at St Paul's Church in Danbury this summer. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ragged Mountain Foundation, PO Box 948, Southington CT 06489.

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Published by The News-Times on Apr. 17, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for John Hartford

11 Entries

Rich Whitney

April 11, 2024

Always a pleasure climbing with John.

April 11, 2020

I think of John and I still smile.
Puma

Donald Bernier

April 12, 2019

It is hard to believe that he has been gone for 8 years now.For those of us who knew him,it seems like yesterday.Our memories are fresh-It is impossible to forget such a remarkable man.He was kind as kind and gentle as he was tough.In the years that I knew him, I never heard him complain about anything-although God knows he certainly had reason.He was a teacher to all and he was more like a brother than a friend to me.We miss him more than words can express.
Your friend for all time,
Don Bernier

Lou Cothalis

April 11, 2019

It was Don who introduced me to John. He easily fit into our small winter hiking group. His stamina, quick stride and honest smile not only complimented our group but also hid a sadness that was later revealed. I think he was quietly happy after the truth was known as he was treated as before and invited on all hikes. And there we were, sharing our lunches on the side of a mountain. We had sandwiches and he had his special liquid diet. Friendly banter helped complete the days experiance. These moments that John helped create only made our lives just a little more richer.

Lou Cothalis

May 2, 2011

O.K. The first time i met John was on a winter hike in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.His honest smile and genuine way of speaking instantly drew me to him. Durring the long and cold hike up Twin mt.[20 below 0]I realised, this is a good man to know, and now, the simple reality is, he is a good man that will be missed. So, let us not forget what John tought us all---It's up to us to enjoy our lives to the very end!---THANK YOU JOHN---

Elaine Daubner

May 1, 2011

Two weeks have passed since John left us . . . with a huge SMILE on his face:-) How appropriate. He was prepared and ready for his huge last adventure from this life's journey on earth. I truly believe that he stayed longer, so that he could prepare US for his departure. Thank you, John! Not just for helping us with your departure, but for being such a strong steady anchor and resource for so many of us! Every hike was a learning experience.... John, the true scholar that had an amazing way sharing his unlimited knowledge.... lives on in all of us! Yes, nothing can take away his impact on this world and the warm memories of such a dear, gentle soul. I can't wait to see him again someday in heaven, and once more be privy to his melodious praises! He'll be able to play his heart out for all eternity on instruments even more beautiful than the grandest harpsichord! So special, so unique was our friend. Our world is emptier with him gone....Elaine and (Julie Weigel).

Rachel Bernier

April 30, 2011

I was lucky enough to spend the past two summers climbing with John. He was so much fun to be around...always coaching me, sharing in my frustration when I fell off a climb, laughing at my life stories and cheering and clapping when I made it to the top. I respected and admired him as a friend, climber and musician, but most of all I loved him like an uncle. I will miss his wonderful smile which he never failed to produce no matter what struggles he was enduring. He was always so bright and cheery and that is how I will remember him… standing in the sun,on top of the cliff after a long day in the woods, forever smiling… I miss you John.

Hunt Middleton

April 20, 2011

In my own personal way I was deeply touched by Jack's passing. I am happy I was fortunate to have briefly spent some time with him. I shall never forget his warm penetrating eyes, his quiet somewhat mischievous smile, his humility, and his attention to detail, particularly when he played the harpsichord, a very unforgiving instrument! For me, watching and hearing Jack play was an unforgettable experience I will always treasure, My sincere condolences to all who knew and loved Jack, family and friends alike.
Hunt M. Bedford, NY

Louis Boncek

April 19, 2011

John,
In the short time I had the pleasure of your company, I never heard you say a harsh word about anyone or anything. During troubled times I've asked, "What would John say right now, what would he do?" It never fails to bring me back home. You're a true master, and an inspiration to all of us. Rest easy...

Rich Whitney

April 19, 2011

I only knew John for a few yrs, but in that time I came to really enjoy his company. He was ALWAYS a positive voice whenever I was around him. He was always encouraging in our climbing endeavors, and encouraging to everyone around him. I remember Ice climbing on Cannan Mtn with John, and even though he had too stop to administer himself treatment, he never complained and made the top in good form, better than many healthier people. I also remember what a fantastic piano player and harpsacord player he was, what a talent. I'll miss you my friend.

Don Bernier

April 18, 2011

I knew John for about 4 years and in that time came to love him like a brother.In all that time, he never complained once,although he certainly had reason on more than one occasion-winter climbing can be dangerous and uncomfortable at times.He was a remarkable man-an athlete and master musician, but what really set him apart was his immense kindness and tolerance for the weaknesses of others.I miss him terribly and am both proud and humbled to have been his friend in this life.

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