November 16, 1924 — August 10, 2022
John J. Regan, a long-term resident of Reading, recently of Danvers, deceased August 10, 2022, at age 97.
Beloved husband of the late Katherine (Kain) Regan. Father of Elizabeth Regan (George Lowe), John J. Regan (Lucy), Mark Regan (Rosemary), and Elaine Regan Driscoll (Daniel Driscoll). Grandfather of 14 (James, Matthew,
Alicia, Daniel Regan, Laura (deceased), Lauren, Rebecca, Kristin, Daniel Driscoll, Katherine, Andrew, Mary, Melissa, and John) with three great-grandchildren (Jack, Pearl, and Sophie). Brother of the late George Regan, Margaret Sullivan, and Elizabeth Regan. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Born in Lynn, John attended St. Mary’s School through high school and then joined the US Army as an infantryman in World War II. He served in France and southwestern Germany, sustaining a shrapnel injury that caused him to lose his eye, and was awarded a Purple Heart. Returning to Lynn after the war, he studied at Boston College and received a Bachelor’s degree in 1952. He met and married Katherine Kain in 1952, and they moved to Reading in 1955. He was employed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and rose to become the Assistant Regional Director in New England. He retired in 1983 to enjoy his favorite hobby of golf and continue consulting work in the banking industry.
John was known for his good humor, love of loud singing, and sharp wit. He continued to enjoy political discussion and commentary throughout his life and was always up-to-date on current events. A dapper dresser, he was particularly fond of Nordstrom’s and Brooks Brothers, although stalking Filene’s basement was his absolute favorite.
He engaged with his large and decentralized family enthusiastically, using all available communication modalities, and exhibiting excellent social media skills.
Funeral from the Doherty Barile Family Funeral Home 11 Linden St. READING Wednesday, August 17, 2022, at 9:30am, followed by a Funeral Mass Celebrating John’s Eternal Life in St. Agnes Church 186 Woburn St. Reading at 10:30 am. Interment to follow at Woodend Cemetery, Reading.
Family and friends are kindly invited to gather and share memories with his family on Tuesday, August 16, 2022, from 4 – 7 pm in the funeral home. Parking attendants and elevator available.
