John Kinsey Hardy

John Kinsey Hardy, age 85, passed away in his Norfolk, MA home on Thursday, February 20, 2020.  Born in Worcester, MA on May 21, 1934, he was the son of the late Charles and Hildur (Brunmark) Hardy.  He was raised in Norwood, MA with his sister Charlotte and brother Douglas. After graduating from Norwood High School he was drafted into the United States Army, honorably serving his country.  He was stationed in Europe in the motor pool, working as a track vehicle mechanic. Upon his discharge John returned home to Norwood and found a sales position with Holliston Mills. 

 

John married his beloved wife, Judith (Judy) Ann Gerrish, on March 30, 1963 in her hometown of Malden, MA.  They initially made their home in Norwood before settling in Norfolk where they resided in 4 homes until his passing.  John maintained his position with Holliston Mills and his career advanced to Senior Vice President of International Sales before retiring early in his late 50’s. As a man who enjoyed keeping busy, John quickly went out and found another job at Main Street Hardware in Norfolk. Working at the hardware store he loved and continued until he was no longer able. John was proud of his collection of tools.  If anyone needed help building or fixing things he was always happy to help and share.  His point of view was you need 2 of everything (and sometimes it was more than that). 

 

John always made sure to give back to his community.  In his early years in Norfolk, John joined the Norfolk Police Department Auxiliary, helping to keep his new community safe.  In addition, he was a long-time member of the Norfolk Lions Club helping to establish the first youth soccer program and looked forward to his role of Santa in the town’s annual Christmas Parade. 

 

Throughout his life, John was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying both hunting and fishing.  He looked forward to his yearly fishing trip at the end of the summer with the BBB Crew, which was a tradition that has carried on since 1976 and continues today.  Camping at Hermit Island with the Sherwoods was also an annual summer event that carried on for years. However, more than anything John was a devoted family man.  He shared a loving relationship with his wife, Judy and together they loved to travel the world, visiting Europe many times, Hawaii, Australia to visit the Murphys’ and Singapore to welcome their first grandchild Nicholas.  Back at home, he loved to be surrounded by his grandchildren who called him “Pop”, fix anything broken, read a good book and watch a cowboy movie.  He was a great Dad.

 

Beloved husband of the late Judy Ann (Gerrish) Hardy. Loving father of Kim Powderly and her husband Michael of Walpole, Jill Hardy of Millis, and Scott Hardy of Norfolk. Cherished grandfather to Nicholas and Catie of Walpole. Brother of Douglas Hardy of Southhold, NY and the late Charlotte Besse of Centerville, MA. Brother-in-law to Sue (Gerrish) and George Boujoukos of Naples, FL. Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

 

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend visiting hours on Saturday, February 29, 2020 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole, MA.  Interment will be private at the request of the family at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Norfolk Public Library, 139 Main Street, Norfolk, MA 02056.