John Dye (1942 - 2015)

John Frederick Dye

John Frederick Dye passed away peacefully in his home on November 29, 2015 at the age of 73. John was born March 15, 1942 in Lansing, Michigan, and was preceded in death by his parents John F. Dye, Sr. and Julia O. (Bragdon) Dye, his brothers James and George. He is fondly remembered by his wife of 46 years, Janet (Bedford), his son John and wife Somphit, his son Jerel, his daughter Jessica, Grandson Brayden and his sister Roberta and her husband Al Banghart.

John grew up in Lansing Michigan where his upbringing fostered a deep love of creativity, working with his hands, and music. He carried those interests throughout his life and always had a particular love in learning how things worked. After graduating from Lansing Eastern High School he attended Michigan State where he earned a BA in industrial design. Early in his career his excellent problem solving abilities lead him on a path of medical product design and development. He holds eighty patents for devices he designed.

Many will remember him for the never ending flow of interests and his broad range of avocations. Be it boat building, photography, archery, cycling, motor vehicles, woodworking, or music John always delved deeply and completely in his pursuits. He loved learning about a subject as much as he loved building something new. Stacks of magazines, and shelves packed tightly with books stand testament to that love. His home was always peppered with his innovative endeavors, three boats, hand carved sculptures, Kentucky Long, and musical instruments to name a few. Music was always part of his life. He developed an interest in early music and played regularly with a recorder group. He played in community bands, a raucous jazz/rock "Bonding Band", as well as a jazz quartet. All his creativity fostered similar interests in his children, who celebrate lives rich in art, craft and music.

He believed firmly in community and giving back, and found ways to incorporate both with his interests. He volunteered in the Marine Shop at Plimoth Plantation, as a graphic designer in educational development at Battleship  Cove, and spent several weeks with Habitat for Humanity in New Orleans as part of the Katrina relief effort.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 19, at 11 a.m. at the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 50 School Street, Bridgewater, MA.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Johns name to the Old Colony Hospice, 1 Credit Union Way, Randolph, MA or  The of the Northeast, 1661 Worcester Road, Framingham MA 01701.