Exeter, NH – John D. Park Jr., 65, of Exeter, formerly of Methuen, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, January 22, 2022 with family at his side.
He was born in Methuen, MA on January 26, 1956 a son of Joan (Green) Park and the late John D. Park Sr.
Raised in Methuen, he graduated from Central Catholic High School with the Class of 1974. He went on to work in the restaurant industry his whole career, most recently as a chef for Phillips Exeter Academy.
John loved spending time with family, going on vacations, hanging out at the beach and was passionate about cooking and gardening.
Surviving family members include his children, Jennifer M. Park and Ian D. Thibault both of Haverhill, MA; siblings, Gary Park and his wife Brenda, Stephen Park, Chris Park and his wife Julie and Marybeth Park and her significant other Carol, Kathy Richardson and her husband Keith and Heather Lane and her husband Brian; grandchildren, Ian Liam, Vincent, Jukka, Jaiden, Gavin, Gemma and great grandchildren, Azula, Athena and Cameron.
A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 AM on Saturday, February 12, 2022 in St. Michael Parish, 9 Lincoln St., Exeter, NH 03833. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited.. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.
Laura Courtney says
Ian,
You know how much we all loved Jackie. He taught me how to make soup. I remember one time he made the most incredible seafood chowder. I never to this day have had such a delish meal. He was so good to my boys. I’m so very sorry. I’m glad we got to chat for a while yesterday. I love ya kiddo
Love,
Laura Courtney
Heather Lane says
Jack was beautiful person with a huge, tender heart. He saw the world through a different lens, finding (or creating) humor in everything. He made the mundane fun. His agreeable nature made him a willing accomplice for any whim. His laughter and sunny disposition will be missed.
Carlos Elias says
So sorry for your loss remember Jack very well when we would go over to his parents house prayers for the Park Family
Carrie Feeney says
I will always remember Jack for his patience and guidance, delivered with a smile and sense of humor. He willingly shared his skills with me. I rarely make anything without thinking of him from the recipes to knife skills. I’m sure many who knew him well would say the same. I will pass those skills to my children and tell them who I learned from. His name will not be forgotten. Prayers for his family. I’m so sorry for our loss.
Carrie
Kevin McGuire says
Kevin McGuire Chef/ CEC/Culinary Instructor
After Culinary School I first met Jack in the early 90’s working at Stonehedge Inn. I was fortunate to work alongside such a talented and funny guy. We had the same passions food and music . Lots of laughs and plenty of fond memories were made. I left Stonehedge Inn 1996 for an Executive Chef position and asked Jack to be my Sous Chef and it was a great decision for sure as we made a great team with his seasoned palette and kitchen knowledge it was a no brainer. I just want to say that I won’t forget him and the great food and wines we shared as friends/colleagues. Over the years I always reached out to see how he was doing and he told me he was sick, but he was fine. Jack you were a great friend and I really appreciate you and I know if there’s a kitchen in heaven you’ll be there cooking some of the best around. I love you Jack and will see you on the other side your friend Kevin. 🙏❤️🙏
Maggie Doane says
To Jack’s family,
Jack will be missed. I have fond memories of Jack. My most favorite was when a group of us from the Dining Services formed a team to do a 24 hour walk a-thon on the school track for cancer awareness. Each team came up with a theme (ours was Popeye. ) Of course Jack was Popeye, I was Olive Oil, and our boss was Brutis. We had so much fun relaying each other. The object was to have at least one team member at all times walking. I don’t know how much money we raised but it was so much fun and bonding of co- workers and friends forever.
Rest in Peace Jack,
Maggie & Don Doane