SALEM -John David (Jack) LaPorte, passed away Thursday, October 25, 2012, joining his beloved wife of 41 years, Barbara Anne (Towner) LaPorte who passed away June 30th of this year.
Born and raised in Salem, he was the son of the late George Seymour LaPorte, Sr. and Marie Laura (Duquette) LaPorte. Jack graduated from Salem High School, Class of ‘56 and Salem State College with a degree in Accounting. As an accountant, Jack worked for years in the construction industry, most notably at Aberthaw Construction in Boston, where he built lifelong relationships with his peers. As a professional tax practitioner, Jack enjoyed working with his clients every year to prepare their taxes and enjoy their friendship.
As a proud lifelong resident of Salem, Jack enjoyed his time volunteering with the AARP and the Plummer Home for Boys, a place that held a special place in his heart as his parents were the housemasters for many years in the mid 1900s. He also enjoyed his years of fellowship as a member of the Knights of Columbus, Veragua Council #76 in Salem, and the Boston Sparks Association where he held the position of treasurer.
From 1956 to 1964 Jack served in the Massachusetts Army National Guard with the 1st Battalion, 102nd Artillery and attained the rank of Sergeant.
Jack will always be remembered for his smile and his gregarious laugh. He thoroughly enjoyed traveling with his wife Barbara and entertaining their many houseguests and friends over the years. His role as the SHS Class of ’56 toastmaster was one of great pride for him. People who knew Jack well with miss the sparkle in his eye and his easygoing nature.
Jack is survived by a daughter, Lisa LaPorte Pais, two beloved grandchildren, Alison Rose Pais and Jack Anthony Pais all of Peabody, one sister, M. Jean Heffernan of Danvers, and many nieces and nephews. Jack was predeceased by his brother George S. LaPorte, Jr. and his sister B. Ruth (La Porte) Carlin.
Visiting hours will be held Thursday, November 1st from 4 to 8 pm at the Full-Spychalski Funeral Home, 84 Washington Square East, by Salem Common, Salem. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, November 2, 2012 at 10 am at the Holy Family Church, 26 Bessom St., Lynn, followed by a committal service at Greenlawn Cemetery, Salem. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. For those who desire, donations may be made in his memory to The Plummer Home for Boys, c/o Nicole McLaughlin 37 Winter Island Road, Salem, MA 01970. For guest book and directions, visit www.SalemFuneral.com.