Johnston Glass, a lifetime Worcester resident, died on Saturday, June 2, 2018 following a period of declining health. John was the only son of Philip and Esther(Johnston) Glass. He was predeceased by his sister and best friend, Cordelia Glass Fenton. John is survived by cousins Betsy A. Engvall of Boylston, Barbara Smith of New Providence, N.J., and brother-in-law Dennis Fenton of Westborough. Family members and a few close friends and neighbors meant the world to John.
John was a former member of the Worcester County Astronomer’s Club, the Community Radio for a Global Audience Group, and Tin Can Sailors, the National Association of Destroyer Veterans. Quick witted, intelligent, along with a dry sense of humor, John was one who made learning seem easy. A trivia buff (calling it useless bits of information!), John ranked nationally in contests when he chose to participate. You would not want to watch Jeopardy with John Glass!
Following his graduation from South High School in 1959, John completed two years at Worcester Junior College and attended the Mass School of Art. He had begun a career as a graphic artist and tech writer when he was drafted into military service in 1967. John served four years in the United States Navy, performing sonar and radio mechanic duties aboard the USS Cone during the Vietnam War. He was proud of his National Defense Service medal, Vietnam Service medal and, not surprisingly, his U.S. Navy Good Conduct medal. After an honorable discharge, John worked for the CIA in Washington D.C. He later worked at Alden Electronics in Westborough.
John wished to forego a traditional wake and funeral service. Instead he’d prefer that you smile and remember him with a toast (Chin-Chin!) one day soon! At a later time the family will conduct a private graveside service, with military honors, at St. Luke’s Cemetery in Westborough. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tower Hill Botanical Gardens in Boylston or the Worcester Animal Rescue League. To leave an online condolence message, please click link.