Obituary of John Edward Plunkett

John Edward Plunkett (Jack), passed away peacefully on December 14, 2023 surrounded by family. 

John Edward Plunkett (Jack), was born on December 26, 1933, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Brighton, MA. His roots were established in a family of deep heritage, with his mother, Katharine Grant MacKenzie Plunkett of Klamath Falls, Oregon, and his father, John Richard Sullivan Plunkett (Dick) of Lancaster, NH. He grew up on Mission Hill where he attended Boston Trade High School for Boys and later took trade classes at Wentworth, MIT and Northeastern. He spent many childhood summers on the family land in Lancaster, NH and working at the Gallagher farm down the road. 

Jack's commitment to service began when he joined the National Guard during his High School years. The call to serve continued, and Jack honorably served in the US Navy as a submariner aboard the USS Trout (SS-566), and USS Irex (SS-482), earning the rank of second class auxiliary man. In March of 1959, Jack participated in SUBICEX, where aboard the USS Trout, he transited 308 miles beneath the ice floes off Newfoundland, Canada, setting a submerged distance record for a conventionally powered submarine. His military service spanned from 1951 to 1962, encompassing ten and a half years of commitment.

His love for adventure and excitement led him to enjoy many interests. Jack found joy in roller skating through his teenage years. He was at the forefront of beach buggying on Cape Cod shores in the 50s through 70s. He enjoyed flying airplanes, motorcycle racing, snowmobiling in the north country, and racing snowmobiles at the Lancaster Grand Prix in the late 60s. He was also passionate about drag racing, showcasing his 57 Corvette at the New England Dragway in Epping, NH.

In the mid-60s, Jack married and settled in Marshfield, MA where he and his first wife, Grace Dunn, owned and operated the Fairfield Pines Nursing Home. Jack was always committed to the community around him. He was a life member of the Kiwanis Club, holding various offices. He was also a lifetime member of the MBBA, where he held the role of President in 1972. He was a call firefighter both in MA and NH. Lastly, he was very involved in the Ski-Bee’s snowmobile club in Colebrook for many years. 

In the mid-70s, Jack and beloved partner, Rosalie, began a new life together in Colebrook, NH. Jack had a penchant for small business endeavors including an Ice business, a rubbish disposal business, owned many rental properties, and always enjoyed tinkering, bartering, and trading parts. In the early 90s, the Plunkett family returned to the Plunkett family roots of Lost Nation, Northumberland, where Jack retired and dedicated himself to caring for the land, embodying the legacy of his father and grandfather. Jack instilled an appreciation for enjoying simple pleasures and appreciation for the land. Sitting on the porch, he would look out at the view and say, “What the Hell else do you need?”

Through Jack’s retirement, he enjoyed snowmobiling, hunting, camping, amateur radio, antique cars, and the exhilarating world of tractor pulls. Yet, amidst all these pursuits, Jack always prioritized his family and enjoying his life in Lost Nation. Whether cheering on his daughters in sporting events or creating lasting memories with his grandchildren, his love and presence were unwavering.

Jack Plunkett, a jack of all trades, is preceded in death by beloved wife, Rosalie, who passed away in 2021. Together in life and now reunited in eternity, their enduring love remains an inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to witness it. Jack is survived by his 4 children Katharine MacKenzie (Chris) Haynes, John Edward Plunkett Jr., Delia Mae Plunkett (Bill Brosseau), and Holly Mae (Tim) Hubbard. As well as, 6 grandchildren Heather Haynes, Brendan Haynes, Cheyanne Chapa, Felix Chapa, Harper Hubbard, and Oliver Hubbard. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who were touched by his sweet nature, quick wit, one of a kind personality, wisdom and boundless love. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the echoes of a life well-lived.