John Lewis McConchie, Jr., of Natick, formerly of Wellesley, age 85, burst into heaven on October 11, 2023 with a playful smile and handful of jokes, happily reunited with his beloved wife of 60 years, Susan. He is survived by daughter Julie McConchie of Newburyport; son Scott McConchie and wife Margaret of Needham; daughter Alison Currie and husband Rob of Medfield; and his cherished grandchildren, Sarah, Corvus, and Matthew McConchie, and Sam and Katie Currie. In addition to his immediate family, John is survived by his brothers, Jim and Ted McConchie, in-laws Mary Ann Nowak and Peter Alderman, and their spouses and children, all of whom remember John’s wit, warmth, and sincere ability to make them feel special.
John was born in Springfield, MA, the first child of John Sr. and Sally Bush Fowler McConchie. He spent his youth in Glenview, IL, sparking a lifelong devotion to the Chicago White Sox and Chicago Bears. When he was in high school, John’s family moved to Wellesley, where he had the good fortune of meeting Susan Alderman and eventually raising his family. He graduated from The Rivers School and Duke University, maintaining friendships from both schools and his zeal for Duke sports throughout his life.
John had a long and successful career in advertising, operating his own firm, M&M Associates, for over 30 years. A dedicated public servant, he was elected and served on the Wellesley Recreation Commission for 21 years and as a Town Meeting member for four decades. He brought his generous, playful spirit to his work and volunteer roles at the Wellesley Chamber of Commerce which recognized his service in 2004, 2009, 2019 with leadership awards, as did the Jaycees which awarded him Outstanding Man of the Year. He also served as President of the Wellesley Club, Jaycees, and PTO. A loyal friend to people from every phase of his life, he could be counted on to deliver a comical roast, a thoughtful tribute, or outrageous card.
John also served as Commissioner of Wellesley Little League for 20 years and was a coach even before he had children. There are generations of kids who felt successful having been on John’s team in little league or CYO basketball. Win or lose, celebrating or commiserating, he was cheering you on.
John’s greatest accomplishment was as a husband, father, and grandfather. He was supportive, kind, and simply fun to be around. From games at family gatherings to the witty songs and poems he wrote his entire life, it is hard to think of him without smiling. His infectious laugh, easy smile, and kind eyes are lighting up heaven now.
Visitation will be held on Monday, October 16 from 4-7pm at the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 477 Washington St. (Rt.16) Wellesley. Family and friends are invited to a Funeral Mass and celebration of his life on Tuesday, October 17 at 11 am in St. John the Evangelist Church, 9 Glen Rd., Wellesley Hills followed by a reception.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in John's name can be made to The Emily Krzyzewski Center, 904 W. Chapel Hill St., Durham, NC 27701. https://www.emilyk.org/