John Amergian, 89, of North Yarmouth Passes Away

John was a proud husband and father of two children. He was also a loving brother, uncle and friend to many.

Throughout his life he dedicated himself to community service and had a passion for helping others. He always had a smile on his face and a good attitude.

He was an avid fan of the Boston Bruins and NASCAR. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Early Life and Education

John began his academic career at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where he received his undergraduate degree. He later moved to Williams College, where he earned his master’s and PhD degrees in political philosophy.

He married Carla Washburne in 1959 and they settled in Brunswick, Maine, where he was offered an appointment as a Bowdoin assistant professor of political philosophy and history in 1961.

He was a prolific writer and a leader in local environmental and social justice causes. He was also a founder of the Green Party in Maine and nationally.

Professional Career

Having worked at Pic-N-Pay and later Hannafords in Portsmouth for over 44 years, John wore several hats over his lengthy career. He logged more than his share of miles on the road and in the shop, but he was most comfortable at home in his favorite tee. The man loved a good ol’ fashion board game and a good book. He also liked a good glass of wine on occasion and would be the first to admit he could drink more than the recommended limit. The biggest challenge was keeping track of it all! Besides the obvious booze, there were several other cocktails to choose from and a few more than could be counted on one hand.

Achievements and Honors

John was a proud North Yarmouth resident, and was involved in a number of local activities. He was a founding member of the town’s fire department and helped start its rescue service, ran Beano on Saturdays for years, and volunteered at Walnut Hill Cemetery for several decades. He was also a diehard Democrat and always urged his family to vote for the best candidates. He passed away at the age of 89 on November 3rd, and was cremated. A service will be held at Pelkey Funeral Home on Thursday, November 11th at 10am. JS Pelkey Funeral Home is located at 92 Main Street in Kittery, Maine.

Personal Life

John is a beloved husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Randee Stilson; children Trevor Amergian and Kyle Amergian; mother Katherine Amergian; sister Susan Amergian; nieces Lindsey Renaud and Kimberly Glennon; nephew William Renaud III; and granddaughter Alexa Glennon.

John’s passion is education, especially teaching students where they are at the center of projects that matter. He holds State of Maine Teaching Certificates in K-8 General Education, 7-12 Life Science, and 7-12 Physical Science. He is also a certified teacher of AP Environmental Science and AP Biology. He loves to teach and empower students to be agents of change. He is excited to join the Hurricane team and bring his love for learning and action to all of our students. To plant a Memorial Tree in memory of John, please click here.