John Philip Averell

It is with profound sadness that the family of Dr. John Philip Averell announces his peaceful passing on January 16, 2025 at the age of 90 years.
John will be remembered by his family and friends as a loving family man. John is predeceased by both his first wife of 25 years Ruth Waneta Goss Averell, with whom he had 3 children (Philip James Averell-decd & daughter-in-law Carlyne Averell, Carolyn Ann Spitler, and Sharon Rose Buntman & son-in-law Steven Robert Buntman) and his second wife of 34 years, Shirley Selig Averell who is survived by 3 children (Danny Selig, Heidi Selig, and Tammy Selig) from a previous marriage. John was also blessed with companionship in his final years and is survived by his friend and confidante Caryn Finard. He is also survived by his 10 Grandchildren: Alexander Averell, David Spitler, Christine Spitler, Lauren Spitler, Michael Averell, Hayley Spitler, Samantha Buntman, Jonathan Spitler, Jessica Buntman, Alicia Buntman.
Born and raised in Darien, Connecticut with his parents, Dr. Philip Rhodes Averell-decd and Grace Mabel Averell-decd, John grew up with his younger brother Richard (Rip) Averell-decd, surrounded by music, literature, and a love of education. He studied physics at Wheaton College in IL, where he met and fell in love with his first wife Ruth. His education continued at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA, where he received his Masters of Science and Doctorate in Physics. He turned his skillset to the new arena of computer programming and worked at Polaroid for more than 30 years, followed by Lotus Corp. and Revelation software. John enjoyed the erudite pursuits of literature, politics, and the sciences; constantly learning and discussing these varied topics with family and friends. John's relationship with music lasted a lifetime. He had a unique gift of playing by ear. He favored the French horn, but was also a gifted pianist, organist, and enjoyed conducting.
John will be deeply missed. His charm and radiant smile brightened our lives and his rigorous intellect constantly challenged us.
The family will be coordinating two memorial gatherings for his Celebration of Life to be held in both Monrovia, MD and Franklin, MA. Contact the family for details at Sharon.buntman@comcast.net. John's final resting place will be in his family plot at Oakland Cemetery in Medway, MA.