John Arthur McDuffee

John Arthur McDuffee, 83, a longtime resident of Tyngsboro, MA, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at Lowell General Hospital alongside loving family. He was the beloved husband of Diane J. (Langlois) McDuffee, with whom he shared just over 54 years of marriage.
John was born in Lowell on April 9, 1941, and was the son of the late Oscar A. and Sophie A. (Bardzik) McDuffee. He graduated from Dracut High School in 1959 and served in the U.S. Air Force in the early 1960s. Over the years, John became a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather.
Known for his quiet, reserved nature, Johns presence was always felt by those around him. He was blessed with five children, twelve grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren and chose the nickname "Grumps" with a smirk. John enjoyed simple pleasures, including daily routines and sharing memories of his family. In his later years, he especially loved recounting stories of his brothers and eagerly anticipating news about his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
John had an entrepreneurial spirit throughout his life. Before retiring, he worked with his brothers at a family business known as Gold, Silver & Platinum, solo as a truck driver, co-owned and cooked at Mas and Pas in Tyngsboro, co-owned Dairyhause in Tyngsboro where he made ice cream, and was an assistant manager at a gas station, among many other roles. He took great pride in supporting his family and enjoyed leisure activities like cruising through Alaska and trips to the casino. John was a regular at his local barber shop for decades, reflecting his consistent and grounded nature. Despite his health challenges in his final years, John remained sharp, with a love for his family and a sharp sense of humor. He found joy in simple things, like turkeys in the yard and Werthers candies.
In addition to his wife, John leaves behind his brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Estelle McDuffee, and his children: Mark & Jane McDuffee of Lynnfield, MA, Todd McDuffee of Dracut, MA, Robin & Jim Manns of Fort Pierce, FL, Jason McDuffee of Haverhill, MA, and Samantha McDuffee of Tyngsboro, MA. He also leaves his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and other relatives. John was predeceased by his brother, Edward McDuffee of Tyngsboro, MA.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to Wounded Warrior Project, which he supported for decades, or Diggity Dogs Service Dogs.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date, and all who knew John are invited to join his family in honoring his life. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of John, please visit our Tree Store.