DOVER - John Frank Garthwaite passed away peacefully on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017 after a brief illness.
He was born on Dec. 9, 1927 in DuBois, Pa., the son of the late Richard and Margaret Garthwaite.
John was a 1945 graduate of Bloomsburg High School in Pennsylvania. He was a member of the Civil Air Patrol while still attending high school. Following graduation, John enlisted in the Navy, proudly serving during World War II. In 1953, he moved with his wife and young family to Dover in order to pursue a career with Home Beneficial Life Insurance. In time, John became a licensed realtor, eventually opening his own Real Estate Agency, Garthwaite Realty. He also worked as a real estate appraiser. His profession brought him great joy as he worked alongside his wife, son, and daughter, each at different points in his career.
John was known for his quick sense of humor which he maintained until his passing along with his devotion to his family. He had a true zest for life which was shown in his many passions including fishing (as a member of the Bassmasters), playing pool with the Elks League, baking the best apple pies around, playing cards, scuba diving, and golfing. John was a hunter and true outdoorsman. In fact, he was one of the oldest to attend Outward Bound Winter Expedition. In his later years, John enjoyed writing and self-published a children's book, The Tale of Too Tall the Mouse. John was a former member of Toastmasters and an active member of the Dover Elks Lodge previously serving as an exalted ruler.
John was predeceased by his loving wife of 69 years, Dorothy; five sisters; and a son-in-law, John T. Bailey. He is survived by his daughter, Linda G. Bailey; and son, John R. Garthwaite, both of Dover; granddaughter and her husband, Jennifer and Scott Torgerson of Camden-Wyoming; and great-grandchildren, Cullen, Zachary and Nathan; along with many loving nieces, nephews, and friends.
Visitation will be 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017 at the Pippin Funeral Home, 119 W. Camden-Wyoming Ave., Wyoming. Service will follow the visitation at noon on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017 at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Lakeside Cemetery, Dover.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
Online condolences may be made via www.pippinfuneralhome.com