John Sylvester, Jr, 86, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones with his legendary head of hair and Boston accent intact. A longtime resident of Danbury, Connecticut, he was a pillar of the Candlewood Lake community, alongside his late wife Louise. Known for their “come on in, the door’s unlocked” attitude, they proudly welcomed anyone, and everyone, to many a memorable gathering.

Born in Everett, Massachusetts, and raised in Milton, John went to Emerson College in Boston, where he met his future wife, Louise Letourneau.

A born salesman with a winning smile and crisp three-piece suit, John worked for 34 years at BESCO, a printing supply company with offices across the United States. There, he worked his way up from the packing room all the way to president. He was also instrumental in helping Louise grow her many businesses. His powers of salesmanship never waned, as customers of his annual tag sales could attest.

A proud father, grandfather, and great grandfather, he leaves behind three sons: John III “Jay” and his wife Lynn, Gordon, Todd and his wife Angelle; his daughter, Elyse; seventeen grandchildren; and four great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Thomas, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 18, at noon at St Rose of Lima Church, 46 Church Hill Road in Newtown, Conn. All are welcome, as he would have wanted.