John Gunther Idzelis

His life in the U.S. began as a small boy, arriving by boat to New York from Europe just before his third birthday in 1950. Born in a displaced persons camp in Germany in 1947 after World War II, John immigrated with his Lithuanian family to America, growing up near Ithaca, New York.

He was resilient and strong in spirit, often with a big smile, and is remembered for his kindness lending a hand to his family, friends and neighbors. John served in the U.S. Navy as a young man, married in 1969, and eventually moved to New Hampshire, where he raised two daughters. He was adventurous throughout his life, making trips in and outside the country, including to all 50 states with his wife of nearly 57 years, Deborah.

John, who was a software engineer before retiring, had a knack for building things and a love of nature. He spent many of his retired years living in Florida, enjoying gardening, golfing, playing cards, puzzling and welcoming family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Deborah, his daughters Katherine and Christine, his grandchildren Amelia and Vincent, and his son-in law-Dominik. He also leaves behind his sister Gertrude, as well as nephews and a niece. A funeral service will be held at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Venice, Florida and he will be buried at Sarasota National Cemetery.

For donations that will be directed to pancreatic research at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, you may go online at donate.pmc.org/md0145, which links to a Pan-Mass Challenge webpage for fundraising participant and John’s brother-in-law Mark D’Agostino.