John Martin Byrne

John Martin Byrne, 73, passed away on April 15, 2025, in Kennebunk, Maine. Born on October 26, 1951, in Newark, New Jersey, John led a life rich in artistry, precision, and creative exploration.
A graduate of Colonia High School and the Manhattan School of Music, John was a classically trained musician who specialized in the recorder. He studied under Bernard Krainis and went on to perform with some of the most prestigious orchestras in the country, including the New York Philharmonic and the Boston Symphony. His musical journey continued after relocating to Maine, where he performed with the Lygonia Consort during the 1990s.
John's artistic talents extended far beyond music. A true Renaissance man and perfectionist at heart, he explored multiple creative disciplines throughout his life. After his time as a performer, he turned his attention to visual arts---embracing photography and digital media to create intricate photomontages that were featured in various art shows. Later in life, he brought stories to life through his work as an audiobook narrator, lending his voice to literature with clarity and expression.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, John had a long professional career outside the arts. He worked for Honeywell before moving to Maine and then spent 23 years at Swiss Time in Portland. His meticulous nature and attention to detail served him well in both technical and creative fields.
John also found joy in culinary arts. He had a particular passion for cooking Asian cuisine---a hobby that showcased not only his adventurous palate but also his remarkable knife skills.
John is survived by his daughter Heather-Lee Byrne and her partner Jason Conklin; grandchildren Tobias, Juniper, and Sylvan Conklin; sister Karen White and her husband Bruce; nieces Jaclyn and Nicole along with their families; and his partner Simone Guerin. He was predeceased by his parents, John Patrick and Ruth (Williams) Byrne, as well as by his son Christopher.
May John's memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who continue to pursue lives filled with creativity and purpose.