MARSTONS MILLS/WORCESTER, MA -
A fishing legend in his own mind, John P. Yurkinas, 86, of Marstons Mills, born and raised in Worcester, passed away January 27th after a short stay at Newton Wellesley Center for Alzheimer Care.
Taking a little piece of each of their hearts, he leaves his three daughters, Marie Quinlan and her husband Bob of Hyde Park, MA; Laurie Moran of Paxton, MA and the 2 beautiful grandchildren she gave him - Thaddeus Moran of Holden and Amelia Moran of Paxton; Patricia Busso and her husband Gianni of Watertown, MA; and his dear cousin Barbara Curran from Sarasota, FL.
John received his bachelor’s degree in math from Holy Cross College before attending Worcester State College where he obtained his Master of Education. He taught middle school math in the Worcester Public Schools until the age of 53 when he took early retirement and enjoyed a wonderful year with his wife Anna (Kraunelis) Yurkinas before she passed in 1990.
John spent the last 28 years on Cape Cod. He lived and breathed fishing, whether it be tying flies, maintaining his boat, organizing his rods and reels, checking the forecast and tides, crabbing or shell fishing. Coming in a close second were his tomato plants and gardening. And his skills at the grill should not go unmentioned; he barbecued year-round, even in snow drifts. The past few decades John traveled extensively overseas with his companion Cora Genatossio, including several precious trips to his beloved relatives in Lithuania. John’s gift of gab was astounding, as was his generous spirit and huge heart making an impression on everyone he met.
There will be no calling hours or traditional funeral. Instead, there will be a friends and family celebration of his life in the spring.
Life is a gift. Drink heartily from its cup, as he did.
In lieu of flowers, please take a moment to fully appreciate the people you love.
Hope the fish are biting and you are enjoying calm, clear skies…
DIRSA - MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 298 Grafton Street, Worcester is assisting the family.