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BORN
1950
DIED
2023
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John Gfroerer Obituary
Concord, NH - John Gfroerer, 73, passed away on July 7, 2023, at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. He died of complications from his three-year battle with cancer and a traumatic brain injury he suffered during Concord's Annual Rock 'N Race in May. Fittingly, the race supports the Payson Cancer Center at Concord Hospital.
John was born in North Tonawanda, NY on June 15, 1950. He was the third of four boys, all of whom were raised in Tonawanda. His parents (deceased) were Gordon Gfroerer and Lois (Smith) Gfroerer.
John graduated from Tonawanda High School in 1968, at the height of the Vietnam War. A true child of the 60s, he attended Woodstock in 1969 and joined the anti-war movement in Washington, DC, which resulted in at least one arrest. Sure to his pacifist beliefs, John became a Conscientious Objector and honorably performed alternative service with the National Welfare Rights Organization, an organization that advocated for the welfare of all, especially women and children.
In the early 70s, John moved to Concord. He started the Open Kitchen Restaurant on Main Street above Diversi's Market, serving up natural foods and folksy entertainment. Concord Creativideo Channel 12 broadcast live folk music from the Open Kitchen and John often manned the camera, which planted the seeds of his long career in video.
Upon the closing of the Open Kitchen, John went to work full time for Channel 12. He helped the station develop into an important and quality community resource, covering local news, culture, politics, and sports.
In 1995, John started Accompany Video Production with an office at the Capitol Center for the Arts. Accompany has continued to serve the local community and beyond with a variety of video services ranging from historical documentaries and political pieces to dance recitals and local theater productions. John's work has been broadcast on Public Television and the History Channel. He recently co-produced an acclaimed documentary on the life and career of 19th and early 20th century composer Amy Beach, who was born in Henniker.
John was deeply committed to improving the quality of life for all in the Concord community. Most recently, he was the Director of the Concord Historical Society and Supervisor of the Checklist in Ward 3. Shortly after moving to Concord in the 70s, John helped start the New Hampshire Folk Festival and direct the First Night Concord festivities on New Year's Eve. He has been a contributor for the Concord Monitor for a number of years, frequently writing "My Turn" pieces on timely subjects and reflections on life as a citizen, father, and artist, always a joy to read.
John was anchored by music and family. Besides the Concord community, John also loved Chautauqua Institution, a community of artists, educators, faith leaders, friends, and musicians in southwestern NY.
John leaves behind his daughter Julia Gfroerer and her son Franklin Kelly, John's only grandchild, of Queens, NY; his life partner Lisa Brown and their daughter Brinkley Brown, of Concord; three brothers, Peter Gfroerer of Pendleton, NY, Michael Gfroerer of Concord, and Joseph Gfroerer of Frederick, MD; and several nieces and nephews and their children.
John sought to teach others the value of honesty, integrity, humility, and diplomacy. The only thing he didn't teach us was how to live without him.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, July 16 at 1pm at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Hopkinton, NH. A reception will follow at 3pm at the Snowshoe Club in Concord.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in John's memory may be directed to St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Hopkinton, NH or the Concord Historical Society.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Gfroerer
Michael Birkner
December 18, 2024
John made an important contribution to civic life in Gettysburg in the 1980s by hosting a cable interview show with local officials, newspaper reporters and editors, and business leaders. This was very early on in the cable world.
His subsequent career as videographer and story teller with documentary film made a lasting mark in New Hampshire. His commitment to sharing New Hampshire's rich history was sincere and impressive. He's missed.
Deborah Brink
July 21, 2023
My deepest condolences to the family. I had the privilege of meeting John several times over the years and he was always a kind and friendly presence.
David Murray
July 19, 2023
We all just lost a "gentle rock". A man that somehow carried a "steady calm" wherever he traveled. Completely genuine at all times, and generous with his time and talents. So incredibly proud and at the same time so humble. We must bid farewell to one very amazing man. John, you will be missed by many. My sympathy to the entire family.
Fred Bramante
July 18, 2023
John was a great partner in helping the EDies (NH Excellence in Education Awards) from its inception in 1993. He was always a pleasure to work with on any video project. With every visit to his office he always spoke lovingly of his family. I appreciate that I had him as a colleague and a friend. NH has lost a good one who will be hard to replace.
David Harris
July 15, 2023
John's contribution to Concord's culture is considerable, if quiet. You could learn a lot from John--I certainly did--whether through documentaries or lectures or newspaper columns or the folk festivals or First Nights he organized or just his general demeanor. During John's move out of Franklin Street, I also learned that, when volunteering to help with hauling stuff, it's a good idea to know up front whether there's a piano involved. When it was my turn to move, John didn't hesitate to reciprocate, including lugging this heavy table from which I now write. This is a great loss for our community and especially for his family. My condolences to Lisa, Brinkley, and Julia.
Babette Rittmeyer
July 14, 2023
Babette Rittmeyer
July 14, 2023
Babette Rittmeyer
July 14, 2023
I was so sad to learn about this heartbreaking news. John was a wonderful person and worked closely with us at the Lantos Foundation for many years. I was lucky to be involved with his video creativity and our discussions. At our big events in DC, he was so proud to have me photograph Brinkley and him with our human rights recipient. I will miss doing that. His voice, manner, and imagination were an important presence in our office. I join so many people who will miss him. How awful he had to fight a horrible disease and suffer. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his loved ones, especially Lisa and Brinkley.
Quiet, patient, and a real mensch - that was John.
Georgene Fabian
July 14, 2023
I had never met John. I am the publicity person for the Holderness Historical Society and so distributed information about our event about the Primary that was to be held in June. We rescheduled our event with him after he suffered the concussion. I had the opportunity to talk with John and about the content of his talk concerning Senator Muskie and he assured me that he would be just presenting the facts. I enjoyed that discussion with him. As others who knew him talked about his gentle soul, I too felt he would be a compelling speaker with an understanding voice. Holderness has missed an opportunity to learn from an educator of great stature.
Ethan Hendrick
July 14, 2023
John was a great man and a great mentor. He taught me the foundation of all of my media work and his trust in me gave me the opportunity and confidence to put in practice my teachings and pursue a career that brings fulfillment to my life. For this I am eternally grateful.
Michael Birkner
July 14, 2023
John's passing is a deep loss for Concord. Both as a presence on local cable television interviewing news makers and news analysts, and as a documentarian of the first order, John made an immense contribution to the community's dialogue about current issues and to its history. He's pretty close to irreplaceable.
Paula Henderson
July 14, 2023
Lisa and Brinkley, I am so sorry for this huge loss in your life. May your many happy memories keep your heart warm and full.
Mark and Lana Doughty
July 13, 2023
We were so very sorry to hear of John´s passing! We knew John from his early days in Concord along with many other transplants to this area. We wish to extend our deepest sympathy to his family and dearest friends! It was an honor and pleasure to have known this gentle, kind, creative and loving human We will not be able to attend the service or get together. However, we will honor and celebrate him in Maine with Mark playing a cherished selection of Irish/ English country tunes on the mandolin
Godspeed John
Susan Curley
July 13, 2023
I will miss seeing John at the Capitol Center. My prayers and condolences to the family at this very difficult time.
Tom,Brenda and Brody
July 13, 2023
You will truly be missed. Always been a great neighbor and a friend.
Becky Lougee
July 12, 2023
I was saddened to bear of John´s passing. He was such a gentle and thoughtful person. I got to work with him when we both served on the committee to create the time capsule currently buried under the sidewalk in front of the State House. We had so much fun!! John made a captivating and charming film showing highlights of a day in the life of Concord. The buried capsule contains instructions for finding and viewing it. We had to work out how to allow people to view it in the future, knowing the technology would change. He was a delightful and creative part of our group. My deepest condolences to his entire family.
Liz Hager
July 12, 2023
John´s passing is SO sad. I feel lucky to have been able to visit with him last month at the Concord Historical Society (which was fortunate to have him work with them to strengthen the organization.) He was his usual wonderful self though shook from his fall and hospitalization. He was always so sweet and dear and competent and kind and thoughtful. There are just not enough positive words to describe his many talents. My thoughts are with Lisa and Brinkley and Julia as you deal with this terrible loss.
Bob Molloy
July 12, 2023
Very sorry to learn of John's passing. Will miss seeing him on the road. May he Rest In Peace.
Diane Johnston
July 12, 2023
I am so sorry to hear of John's passing! He was always so gracious when we asked him to film our productions of Kimball School's Musical Theatre Club. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May their memories warm their hearts. God bless them all!
Denise L Perron
July 12, 2023
John's integrity and love of God and his fellow men and women marked everything he said and did. What an honor to know him. He made me want to be a better person.
Richard Terrell
July 12, 2023
I´m am so sorry to hear of Johns passing. John has been coming to my Barber shop for 50 years. He was a great friend and wil be greatly missed by me and so many others. To Brinkley and your mom and family you have my deepest sympathy and John will never be forgotten . God Bless
Gregory Uhrin
July 11, 2023
John was a central part of Creativideo/Channel 12 (the early anchor station of YCN) in Concord. Through his oversight, dedication, direction and ultimately compassion with our Christa McAuliffe "Teacher in Space" Public Affairs coverage for Channel 12 we were the first New England cable TV station to recieve the prestigious CableACE for overall commitment to local programming. Only one example of to many to count of his touch being improved by his involvement. Memory Eternal dear Friend!
Carlo Watanabe
July 11, 2023
I remember John Gfroerer as a kind, soft-spoken and dedicated organizer. I worked with him at the Open Kitchen, at Channel 12, and the New Hampshire folk Festivals during the late 70s and early 80s. Among many other strengths, he had an unerring ear and vision of what to document and preserve (in videos and publications) with regard to the folk music and culture of New England. He is missed dearly.
Susan Hatem
July 11, 2023
When John's name appeared on an organization's request for a grant from New Hampshire Humanities, staff and board took a close look. His skill and artistry as a documentary filmmaker, and his appreciation for the unique stories of NH, earned him our attention and admiration. From films about publisher William Loeb to the Washington, NH Meetinghouse, from the Cold War in NH to pianist and composer Amy Cheney Beach, and so many more, John figured out how to both show AND tell. So sorry to learn of his sudden passing. Susan Hatem
Dawn DeAngelis - NHPBS
July 11, 2023
I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. New Hampshire PBS has broadcast nearly every one of his documentaries over the years. He also served on the NHPBS Community Advisory Board. John was creative, kind, humble, and honest. It was always a pleasure to spend time with him. My sympathies go out to his entire family, friends and the community he served.
Chelsea Hedquist
July 11, 2023
I feel incredibly privileged to have known John and had the opportunity to work closely with him at the Lantos Foundation over the last few years. He was a such a good, decent man and truly dedicated to the cause of making his community and the world a better place. Even when we occasionally disagreed or had different artistic visions, I always respected John's insight and valued his perspective on important matters. I am grateful to have known him, and he will be greatly missed.
Maleeka Lloyd
July 11, 2023
John was a kind, gentle man that was so supportive of his community and all his friends and family, such a loss. He will be missed.
Robin Spielberg
July 11, 2023
How I wish John could see these messages from all of those who loved him. Maybe he can. My friendship with John goes back 25 years. We talked so much about music, raising daughters, and shared our philosophies on life. We probably clocked in hundreds of hours of conversations and letters. John lived a purposeful and meaningful life. He was a wonderful listener...so rare these days. He listened and never judged. He asked important questions. He dug deep when asked an important question. He lived with integrity and love for his fellow humans. I am forever grateful to have had him in my life....I am just selfish that I wanted more time.
George Nimmo
July 11, 2023
I didn't know John, but after reading about him, I think I should have. My connection is only through his daughter, Brinkley Brown. May the lasting memories carry you all through. "No one ever told me that grief feels so like fear."(Libba Bray).
Pam Manus
July 11, 2023
John has been and will be a guiding light in my life. His quiet, steady support, ready wit, encouraging smile and listening manner are some of the many ways I will remember him. He will be sorely missed.
Richard N Swett
July 11, 2023
John always became a member of the family no matter who he worked with. His gentle, creative spirit produced many wonderful video pieces for the Lantos Foundation, political campaigns, and other civic organizations and productions. Although a quiet man who was careful with his words, he really had something of value to say when he spoke. It usually came after keen observation and consideration. His ability to speak honestly, intelligently, and sincerely about the causes he believed in made his impact much greater and deeper than one would believe by just looking at him. His advice will be sorely missed and his memory will burn brightly for the good advice he dispensed and the wonderful productions he created.
Denise Vozella
July 11, 2023
John offered so much richness to the Concord community. I'm very sorry for his family's loss and know they have many cherished memories to hold dear.
Allwynne Fine
July 11, 2023
Jon will be missed. I always enjoyed seeing him at the auditorium as he videotaped various shows. I last saw him at the Concord Historical Society´s last meeting right after his fall and even though he was suffering from the results of the fall, he never lost his warm smile.
Barb Higgins
July 11, 2023
In the planning of Molly`s funeral, Molly B, the Musical, John spent a beautiful May weekend putting together the video compilation that concluded the show. He was patient and kind with me and listened to everything I said. He watched me cry and struggle with all of it. He recorded the show and presented me with several copies. Anytime I wanted more he had them for me within a couple of days time. Anytime he saw me he greeted me with a smile and a wonderful conversation. This is horrifying news to me as John is somebody very special in my life. If I feel this sad, I can only imagine how his family must feel. Thank you John for all that you did for me and all that you did for others. Say hi to Molly for me. Barb
Brittany Smith
July 11, 2023
John´s spirit will be sorely missed. Having John behind the camera at any Lantos Foundation event was a plus. My favorite part of those events was the after-event staff lunches where we would all debrief and talk about all the funny and difficult things that happened as we tried to pull it off. John was always the best to have at the table. I feel so lucky that John, Lisa, and Brinkley made their way into my life.
Richard Moore
July 11, 2023
I met John while working on the NH Capitol Dome gilding project. John was extremely easy to work with, a true professional, and all around nice guy. He was fearless. I wish that I could talk with John a few more times. I will miss seeing him at the Audi and around town.
Bill Boynton
July 11, 2023
John Gfroerer made the world a better place. He was a brilliant filmmaker and storyteller, and a gentle soul. He cared deeply about Concord and the community around him. I loved working with John on several projects, including the "New Hampshire Notables" program series and his outstanding documentary on the history of NH´s Presidential Primary. He was always so patient, thoughtful, insightful, and easy to work with. No film or video project was too big or too small for John. One day he could be interviewing famous people, the next producing a short video for my 25th wedding anniversary. So sad and devastated to hear of John´s passing. My sincere condolences to his family. John will be missed by so many people. Like many others, I will treasure fond memories of knowing John and working with him. He was a good man. He made a difference.
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