John S. Horan ... train, tractor aficionado; at 84

DOVER - John S. Horan, son of Lura Horan & Sydney Hanson, born Dec 3, 1937 in Rochester, died at Bellamy Fields in Dover on Dec 5, 2021 with family at his side after battling COPD & Parkinson's for a number of years.

John, born into the life of farming, was a longtime resident of Strafford. He attended Dover High and was active in the FFA. Upon graduation, he served three years in the Marine Corps. After his service, he returned to Strafford where he built his own home and met and married his wife of 58 years, Maureen. He was the primary caretaker for several neighboring properties, winning awards for the apprehension of a number of burglars. He spent 20 years in the U.S. Postal Service, again winning a number of awards for service, retiring in 2005.

He was forever passionate about trains and tractors. He enjoyed gardening and sharing his produce, cutting wood and haying his fields. When a neighbor or family needed help, he was there to share his expertise and labor. He especially loved his four grandchildren and great-grandson.

He is predeceased by his wife Maureen, sister Dorothy London and brother Arthur Horan. He is survived by daughter Marcia Richardson (and Harold) of Strafford; daughter Maureen (Terri) Horan of Searsport, ME; son David Horan of Center Barnstead; daughter Marilee Shackleford (& Greg) of Rocky Face, GA; son James (& Jennifer) Horan of Strafford, NH; granddaughter Marlee Horan (Chris & great grandson Johnathan); granddaughter Emilee Shackleford; grandsons Charlie & Billy Horan, along with many beloved nieces, nephews & Raz, their golden retriever.

John was a legend of his time.