John “Jack” Sjostedt Jr. of Duxbury, MA passed away peacefully on December 10, 2025 surrounded by his loving family, just six days shy of his 84th birthday. Born on December 16, 1941, in Waltham, Jack grew up in Watertown and graduated with the Watertown High School Class of 1959. His life was defined by service, humor, friendship, and a deep love for his family and community.

Jack made his home in Duxbury where he built a life rooted in kindness and connection. He was the devoted husband of Catherine Sjostedt, his beloved partner of 50 years. He leaves behind his children – Son John III; daughter Sheila and her fiancé, Scott: and daughter Kimberly – who were the pride of his life. Jack was the proudest Grampy to Jacqueline, John IV, Madison, and Cadence, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

He is survived by his siblings Wayne and his wife Barbara, Barry and his wife Gail, Janice and her husband Scott, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was predeceased by his brother Don, as well as his parents John Sr. and Edna (Church) Sjostedt.

Jack’s dedication to public safety and service spanned decades. He was appointed a Duxbury Call Firefighter in 1966 and later served the Town of Duxbury as a Public Safety 911 Dispatcher for both Police and Fire until his retirement in 2005. Earlier in life, he worked at W.H. Nichols Company in Waltham. In his retirement, Jack continued to serve his community by volunteering as a driver for Seniors at the Duxbury Senior Center. He also worked for O’Reilly’s Auto Parts, where he became famous for delivering more smiles and friendships than auto parts.

A proud member of the Duxbury Firefighters Relief Association and Duxbury American Legion Post #223, Jack treasured community traditions. He could be found at every Project Art’s concert on Wednesday nights throughout the summer – always with a coffee in hand a smile on his face, and conversation ready to brighten someone’s day.

Jack loved simple joys: evenings at Duxbury and Plymouth Beach (and Saquish in the 70’s), impromptu chats at the “Duxbury Mall”, where he’d proudly declare, “Look what I picked up”, and time spent with friends near and far. He played annually in the Duxbury Legion Cribbage Tournament and delighted in recounting the legendary “Bajeesus shot” – the gold shot that bounded out of a pond and landed within a foot of the cup.

Known as a “Jack of all trades”, he was always willing to help a neighbor, fix what needed fixing, or lend a hand without being asked. Jack leaves behind the legacy of a life filled with kindness, humor, service, and love. The world is undoubtedly a better place for his time here, and everyone who knew him will carry a piece of his spirit with them forever.

Calling hours for John will be held on Monday 12/15 from 4 to 8pm , A service will be held on Tuesday at 10am at the Shepherd Funeral Home in Kingston followed by a burial at the Mayflower Cemetery in Duxbury.

Jack will be dearly missed, fondly remembered, and forever cherished.