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John A. WATERHOUSE

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Glastonbury High School

John WATERHOUSE Obituary

WATERHOUSE, John A. John A. Waterhouse, a lifelong resident of Glastonbury and a time honored teacher passed away at his home Monday (September 6, 2010). He was the son of the late Almon and Charlotte Waterhouse, and a valued and well respected member of the town he loved. Mr. Waterhouse was involved in many community and civic organizations. He will be remembered as a champion of those who were in need. He was a very private man who chose to do his good work without recognition. He will be remembered by his strong faith, his teaching career, his scholarship and most importantly by being a dedicated and loyal friend to those close to him. His good deeds and life will be remembered with a memorial service on Sunday September 26 at 3 PM in the Glastonbury High School Auditorium, 330 Hubbard St. A reception will follow the service. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Connecticut State Grange Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 1393, Glastonbury, CT. 06033. For online tributes please visit www.mulryanfh.com.

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Published by Hartford Courant from Sep. 12 to Sep. 13, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for John WATERHOUSE

62 Entries

Peter Terwilliger

November 4, 2024

I came to realize that my understanding and belief in American democracy amid these crazy times came down to this outstanding man who taught us “nipmunks” about civics, government, and patriotism. All these years later I am still thinking about him and his profound effect on who I am. Thank you, Mr. Waterhouse, may you rest in peace.

Peter Terwilliger
GHS ‘83

Jim Holden GHS '82, Waterhouse student '77-'78.

August 13, 2024

I saw Mr. Waterhouse mentioned on Facebook (2024), and I searched him in Google. I sadly expected that the search would lead me here.
He was a wonderful teacher, he tolerated and answered all of my questions.
One humorous anecdote - one of his quizzes was simply to write out the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution. Schoolhouse Rock was big on Saturday morning cartoons on ABC (pre-Cartoon Network), and one of the cartoons in that series was a song that quotes the Preamble word for word. While we were all writing the answer to this one-question quiz, you could see everyone's head bobbing up and down as they remembered the song in their heads. :-D

Rob Folsom

April 26, 2011

I knew John at college; we were in the same pledge class at Alpha. He was a very sweet guy and I remember him fondly. I didn't know him well, but when I began to read the feelings of all his ex-students in these pages, I was very moved to see what he had done with his life & I was glad to see that the potential for good things that I remember in his face and in his smile had come to fruition. A life so well lived helps us all to be better. Rob Folsom '65

April 26, 2011

John Waterhouse was a member of Alpha Pi Tau Fraternity at Keene State College, Keene, NH. John was not only a fraternity brother of mine but a very good friend while we were at Keene. We were both history majors and had many classes together. He was a quiet but moving force. I was shocked when I heard the news...questions one's own mortality, esp. if you both are the same age! You are and will continue to be missed.
Kenneth Morris, KSC '64, U.S. Army Retired

Christopher Jones

January 25, 2011

Its now been 25 years since graduating and after all the elapsed time, one of the few clear memories I have of GHS is of John Waterhouse. The most good natured, inspiring and decent soul I have ever had the privilege of having as a teacher. High School was very difficult. I had had difficulties due to a misunderstood, problematic nervous disorder going back to 6th grade. I didn't feel like much of a person in High School and nobody demonstrated more respect and decency than Mr. Waterhouse.

I had him for History in my Junior year. He made me love History. He was also very sympathetic to what I was feeling as a demoralized teenager who couldn't stop his head from twitching. He was generous with his time and support. He treated me with respect and was always willing to listen or help. My grades improved dramatically in my Junior year and I largely credit John Waterhouse.

He was such a wonderful man and teacher and I find this to be such difficult news. Wherever he is, I hope he is now being shown the same decency and kindness that he showed so many people during his time here on earth.

Kate Erf

October 18, 2010

I can still picture Mr. Waterhouse’s American History classroom at Gideon Wells Junior High in the late 70s. He towered over the front of the room, but it wasn’t his physical presence that kept us rapt to all he said. He was an engaging and entertaining teacher—one of the few teachers I remember well from Jr. High. He leaves a legacy in the thousands of students who paused in the Glastonbury public school system so he could open our eyes, our ears and our minds to the value of history and the value of education. He inspired me to work hard in his class, and taught me much beyond history—that exceptional teachers are key to successful public education, that each individual is responsible for stretching to fulfill his or her potential and challenging classmates and colleagues to be their best. These are gifts I have taken with me throughout my life. I am very thankful for Mr. Waterhouse’s presence in my education and share the thoughts of so many others that his life here left a profound positive influence on his students and colleagues.

Steve Kistner

September 28, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse was an example of what a true educator should be. I was lucky enough to work with him for three years at GHS. After retiring from teaching, Mr. Waterhouse came back to GHS to educate those in the special education department. While serving as a long term substitute, I was given the honor of being able to teach in front of him. Mr. Waterhouse encouraged me, supported me and gave me words of wisdom I will carry with me. Mr. Waterhouse told me in our last conversation, days before his passing, referring to my new position at the school “There are no small jobs in education, you can always have an impact and there is always a student who needs you”. You were the best Mr. Waterhouse. I think a phrase he said often sums up how he felt about his students and colleagues “It’s another wonderful day in education land”. You will be missed but more importantly remembered.

martin bretschneider

September 26, 2010

Mr waterhouse thank you everything you were
a great teacher best regards to your family
you will be sorrowly missed
marty bretschneider class of 1975

Melanie Northrop GHS '77

September 25, 2010

Back in the early 1970s, when I was in his classroom at Gideon Welles Middle School, Mr. Waterhouse was someone who challenged us not just to learn events in American history but to engage actively in thoughtful, vigorous and respectful dialog with each other, and acknowledge and take up our civic responsibilities. He taught us to be active and involved citizens, at an exciting time when the 26th amendment was fresh and many of us looked forward to the opportunity to vote at 18, while we were still students. He conveyed that we could all be scholars of American history, and while he was demanding of our intellects, he also was amazingly funny, warm, and caring. He expected much from us, but this was only what he expected of himself, and in his classroom we cemented friendships and mutual respect that are still strong, almost 40 years later. What a legacy! Thank you, Mr. Waterhouse, for everything you modeled and gave to so many kids in Glastonbury.

Kenji Sugahara

September 24, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse was simply an amazing person. He was and still is an inspiration. He helped shape all of his former students into what we are today. Whether he acted as a counselor, a teacher, a class advisor or as a friend he had a positive impact on all of us. He has changed the world for the better- and in many more ways than one might think. While he may have passed away, his spirit lives on in every single person he has touched. Mr. Waterhouse- thank you.

Susan Kukla Brewer

September 24, 2010

I never will forget the field trip to Boston our U.S History class took with Mr. Waterhouse back in the late 60's. I was going to Gideon Welles at the time, it was brand new then. He really brought early American history to life with his amazing teaching ability. I am glad to see he inspired so many students over the years. My condolences to his family.

Patty Lemire (Kean)

September 24, 2010

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

September 24, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Barbara Kowalsky Andriks

September 23, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse was also my CI teacher, and while I never had him as my history teacher, I will always recall what an extraordinary person he was. Always cared so much for all of us students in every way. He will certainly be missed. Class of '75

September 22, 2010

For many elections I worked with a true gentleman, Almon Waterhouse, John's dad at Academy School. John always brought his mother to vote and as soon as they entered the gym Almon's face just lit up. There would be a peck on the cheek for Mrs. Waterhouse and a pat on the shoulder for John. The year Almon died John still brought his mother to vote. When they were done I approached them to say how much we missed his dad and how touching it had been to witness the affection between them. John nodded a thank you with tears in his eyes and I realized what a very private, modest gentleman he was. Susan Katibian, Glastonbury

Chris Covey

September 21, 2010

Mr Waterhouse was one of my favorite teacher in my 12 years in glastonbury school system. He made the subject come alive, his class was the only one I looked forward to at Gideon. He was kind and compassionate to his students. Prayers for peace to his loved ones RIP Mr Waterhouse, you made a real difference in so many lives.
class of 76

September 20, 2010

John A. Waterhouse, you have touched so many lives through your teaching, friendship and brotherly love. We are truly blessed to have known you and worked with you in the Order of the Amaranth and the Masonic Fraternity. May the Good Lord welcome you into that Spiritual Building, that House not made with hands, eternal in the Heavens. Sweet in our memory, John.

Marjorie and Lloyd Drager

Sarah M

September 19, 2010

Mr Waterhouse meant a great deal to my family. He was a friend we considered family and he will be missed greatly!

John Bonneville

September 18, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse was a blessing to have at GHS. I had him for Current Issues (CI) as a senior and for 1 class frosh year. The news has shocked me but I hope may you RIP.
John Bonneville '02

Pam Hannah Simpson

September 18, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse was a blessing to us at both the Middle School and as part of the powerhouse history department at the High School for the class that graduated in 1985. We will remember him as we reunion this year. I will always remember walking the Freedom Trail with him. My prayers to his friends and family. Pam Hannah Simpson '85

Ann Bania

September 16, 2010

John had a nature/persona one could not help but love and admire. He was compassionate with a heart of gold and many of us were blessed and honored to be a part of his life. We will never let his memory grow cold. Forever in our hearts, forever loved and forever cherished.

Jonathan Sweet

September 16, 2010

One of the few teachers at GHS that made a "mark". Sad to hear that he is gone.

Jon Sweet GHS '90

Pamela Osip

September 15, 2010

Kira Lintner

September 15, 2010

We have lost a truly amazing person. I am honored to have had such a great teacher in my life.

Pamela Osip

September 15, 2010

to the best teacher i never had! thank you for our morning talks. you made getting through high school much easier! thank you Mr. Waterhouse, i love you and will remember you forever!

September 15, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse was a very kind and awesome teacher.Very humble and always polite. Great sense of humor also. My prayers and condolences go out to his family & friends. David T. Condit Class of 86

Susan Fauteux

September 15, 2010

In loving memory of a truly wonderful teacher who touched so many. We will love you and miss you always.

Mike Vandall

September 15, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse opened my eyes to the world of history, a subject I went on to major in in college. He was one of my favorite teachers growing up, and I hope left as much an impression on others as he did on me. I wish him well on his next jouney.

Mike Vandall GHS '86

Judith Moriarty

September 14, 2010

Mr Waterhouse was not only a wonderful teacher, but a true gentleman. He lives on in the hearts and memories of every person, especially students, whose lives he touched.

September 13, 2010

"I remember Mr. Waterhouse as a kind and understanding teacher, he will be dearly missed." Lisa Schoebel
" What the teacher is, is more important than what he teaches"
Karl Menninger

Sharon Jordan

September 13, 2010

Not only do I remember an inspirational history teacher, but he was fun and encouraging to talk to between classes. I now work in retail in Glastonbury, and have always been glad to see him and help him anyway I could. He was just a gem to be in the presence of. When I told him of my brother's passing, because I figured he probably was my brother's teacher as well, he was very upset and open with condolences toward me. It is said, I will not see him again at my place of work. I will miss you, Mr. Waterhouse.

Karen Bogue

September 13, 2010

It is with a sad heart I learned of my friend's passing today - 9/13/10.
John was a special man - in my GHS 2006 yearbook he wrote:"To Karen - my best dear friend - thanks for the smiles".
During my time at GHS John put many a smile on my face and helped me to always look for "my happy place". I know his happy place was teaching his many students.
I will miss you my dearest friend and I'm glad I was able to have a last hug. I saw John at a para meeting not long before his passing.

This quote from Maya Angelou gives a good description of the type of person John was: "When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed."

I was blessed to know him - RIP
Love you - Karen

Matthew Jorgensen

September 13, 2010

When I arrived from VT for my 1st day of classes, Mr. W was welcoming and warm and gave me the strength that helped me transition to G-Bury... R.I.P. Mr. W...

Doug Stack

September 13, 2010

To my teacher, mentor, confidant and forever friend. I am honored to have known such an extraordinary man. The lessons John has taught me inside and outside the classroom have had such a profound impact on my life. His loyalty and compassion were genuine. And his spirit timeless. I will forever carry with me all that made him John Waterhouse.

Larry Brouder

September 13, 2010

Brilliant man, with exceptional contributions that will filter down through us and our children as an enjoyable engagement in learning, in community, and in giving. He will certainly be missed. L Brouder.

Dianna Vazquez

September 13, 2010

What an amazing man. An inspiration to a lot of the students in the wilds that is High-School. He was a man of amazing principals that didn't care if you were actually from Glastonbury or not; a man who welcomed everyone who called GHS school. Always ready with a twinkle in his eye and a grin playing across his lips, there will never be another one like him. Truly one of a kind, the world is less without a man like him.

Keith Danfoth

September 13, 2010

Despite being new to the state and high school, Mr. Waterhouse was not only one of my favorite teachers, but a good friend and mentor inside and outside of the school. I will certainly miss his humor and quick wit, not to mention his excellent speeches in senior year CI class. God Bless him and his family.

Mike and Dotty Kycia

September 13, 2010

What a man of great inspiration Mr. Waterhouse was! Not only did he have a masterful knowledge of American History, he had an understanding of what it takes to inspire young people to learn. We loved the stories our kids told of his classes and his subtle sense of humor. His contribution to youngsters lives will live on for generations. Our family will remember him and tell special Mr. Waterhouse stories for many, many years. We are sure he is welcomed in another place where his goodness will live on and inspire others forever.

Marian Rainford

September 13, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse was my favorite teacher of all time. He connected with students like no other. He will be missed. The fact that there are 5 pages of messages here from former students around the country attests to the impact he had on us. RIP Mr. Waterhouse.

Susan (Kycia) Barron

September 13, 2010

I am so sorry to learn of Mr. Waterhouse's passing. I have read the entries that former students have written, and I can't help but smile, thinking of the Freedom Trail Trip in Boston! I, too, thought it was his first time taking all of us! He not only brought American History to life, he shared his fantastic sense of humor on a daily basis. I think he made a huge impact on each and every one of us. As a former student during 1977 - 1978 at Gideon Welles, I was incredibly blessed to have had him as a teacher.

Janet Moberg

September 13, 2010

I join the ranks of former students who are so very grateful and privileged to have known and studied under Mr. Waterhouse's fine teaching. History was not one of my favorite subjects, but he made it very approachable and enjoyable. I offer genuine sympathy to his family and friends who mourn his loss. In gratitude for the gift of him on this earth, I offer prayers. God's peace. -Janet Dexter Moberg

Kristin Bean

September 13, 2010

Mr Waterhouse was a wonderful teacher and I fondly remember his American History class. He was a kind and caring man who treated all of his students as important people. Mr Waterhouse will be missed by the many people whose lives he touched.

Kim Beisel Arscott

September 12, 2010

Mr Waterhouse will always be my favorite teacher. He was patient, kind and motivating. My grades were awful but I gave all I had, Mr. Waterhouse graded my reports on effort and for that I am eternally greatful, I'd probably still be trying to pass CI. Class. He was a great roll model. Her will be missed.

Peter Kleine

September 12, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse, you will be missed. Thanks for the life experiences.

Lori Holcomb

September 12, 2010

I was very fortunate to have Mr. Waterhouse as a teacher. He was an extremely dedicated teacher who had such a tremendous impact on all of his students. My thoughts are with his family and friends.

Tony Silvestro

September 12, 2010

I rememberd him as a great teacher and just an outstanding individual during my years in school. he was such an incredible man and I will never foget him. Some people just stay in your mind as a incredible human being , and Mr waterhouse was such a man.. Prayers and wonderfull thoughts for him and his family

John Dryden

September 12, 2010

I was not a very good student, but I excelled in Mr. Waterhouses class, due mostly to his ability to make history fun and interesting. I remember our trip to Boston and how Mr Waterhouse was very informative on the history of the city. He was a very kind person and always made time to answer any question I had. He will surely be missed as Glastonbury has lost a most caring and respected member of it's community. May he forever rest in peace after a life of hard work and dedication to the education of all who's lives he touched.

Anne Kellner

September 12, 2010

Yes, they broke the mold after John. He was a true and compassionate gentleman. I will miss his encouragement, kind words and warm smile. "Sweet in our Memory" John.

Robert Ploense

September 12, 2010

LMr. Waterhouse was not only one of the most influential teachers I have ever had but he was also somone who was always there when I needed advice. From the first time I met him his kindness and caring towards others has been something I could only wish to live up too. The world is a better place due to Mr. Waterhouse and I wish him a good rest.

September 12, 2010

The obituary captured the person John. He will live on in his deeds, how he lived, the people he touched and taught, his values. The only thing to add is that I loved him as did my husband Harvey. I shall greatly miss him and wish I could be in Glastonbury to celebrate his life.
from Ruth Katz
a forever Glastonburyite

Lorna Laviolette

September 12, 2010

my condolences to Mr.Waterhouses loved ones he left behind. My prayers are with you.. He was such a nice kindhearted teacher who showed his love of teaching by the way he taught. I only represent a few students from the class of 74, rest in peace John

Sarah Blinn

September 12, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse you will truly be missed by every person that has had the pleasure of knowing you. You are a great man and I honestly don't know what I would have ever done without you. You will forever be in my heart and never forgotten.

JoAnna Guastamachio

September 12, 2010

Mr Waterhouse was one of the kindest teachers Ive ever had the privelage to know... Im so saddened to her of his passing.

He would always find me in the hallways at school (of course at the wong time) but would always let me slide if I didnt have a pass.

He will be missed but always remembered!

Susan G. Motycka

September 12, 2010

It is with deep sorrow that I bid farewell to John Waterhouse. John was everyone's favorite teacher. His knowledge and love of history inspired both young and old. Although he was soft spoken about his accomplishments, those who knew him were aware of the time and dedication he devoted to many organizations. For the past 6 years he served as a town representative to the Glastonbury Free Academy Corporation. His active participation and his gentle humor will be greatly missed. But most of all, he will be missed as a dear friend.

Dorlene Custer Evans

September 12, 2010

It was with great sadness that I learned this news. Truly a great and loving educator and instigator of critical and creative thinking in his students long before these became goals to which current teachers should aspire. Among my amazing memories of Mr. Waterhouse was his taking two US History classes by bus to Boston. "We are going to walk the Freedom Trial!" he told us, with great enthusiasm as if it was the first time he ever had experienced it. "Wear sneakers and no whining," he added with his customary smile. The history he brought to life for us by this venture was both immeasurable and long-lasting.
I am now in my 32nd year as an educator, and still count him among those greats who led by example to love subject and students.
Mr. Waterhouse, now on another shore, and in a greater light, I will miss you.

R. Thomas Hine

September 12, 2010

They broke the mold after they made John Waterhouse. An extraordinary teacher who touched the lives of every one of the thousands of students privileged enough to have learned from him. You will be missed dearly.

Frank Way

September 12, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse was one of those great history teachers who could make his subject come alive and be amazingly relevant to his students. His wit and humor made us want to attend his class. He certainly touched my life and gave me an appreciation and passion for history. He will be sorely missed.

Laura Brainerd

September 12, 2010

John was a very sensitive, caring and funny man. He always loved to make people and he did so successfully. He celebrated Christmas Eve with my family and me. He added a lot to the celebration. John will be sorely missed by those whose life he has touch. May God bless you and may you rest in peace. We love you.

September 12, 2010

I am so sad to hear he has left this earth. He inspired me with his style of teaching. Mr. Waterhouse took us out into the world and made History real in our time. Debates in the classroom. I remember being a member of the original signers of the Constitution and fighting for freedom. He was a mentor and I have taught because he was an inspiration. Rona Carter Mclaughlin (Nashville, TN)

Laura Brainerd

September 12, 2010

John Waterhouse was a wonderfully caring man. He just took me out for dinner three weeks ago and I can't believe he is gone. He shared Christmas Eve with my family and added so much to the celebration. He was a sensitive man and always found a way to make me laugh. My family and I will miss him terribly. Rest in peace John. We love you.

James Flanagan

September 12, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse was one of the best. Very fond memories of his dedication both in and out of school. Our community has lost a true hero to many of its children. My condolences to his loved ones and to the many former students who's lives were touched by this man. On this day we each share a sense of loss yet we celebrate for the gifts that we've been given and lessons that we've learned from this man. A finer legacy cannot be found or wished for. History has again taught us another lesson. How fitting !!

Jeff Buckingham

September 12, 2010

Mr. Waterhouse was an amazing teacher who made history come alive. I often think of how fortunate I was to have been his student.

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