John E. Handfield

John E. Handfield, 73, of Andover passed away March 19, 2024. He was born July 29, 1950, to Francis and Thelma (Chamberlain) Handfield. John grew up in Franklin with his seven brothers and sisters, graduating from Norwich Free Academy in 1968. He worked at Pratt & Whitney for many years as a package designer before moving on to landscaping and delivering oil. John believed in hard work but worked even harder at his passions, and he had many.

As a young man John was an avid water-skier and car enthusiast. He enjoyed softball and darts, playing in several leagues over the years. Later he got into hiking, gardening, and building stone walls. Anyone that has ever visited John’s home in Andover, with its contoured landscape, meticulous lawns, multiple stone walls and flower beds, and a covered bridge spanning a wandering brook, can attest to his skills. In recent years John began restoring old stone walls, developing a local reputation for the quality of his work. A common through line to all these pursuits is being outside. For John, any day he could be outside was a good day. 

If he had to be inside, chess, puzzles, or reading about World War II occupied John’s time. And he never turned down a chance to play cards. He would play with anyone, anywhere, anytime. His favorite games were Hearts, Cribbage and High-Low-Jack (Setback). 

John was a kind, thoughtful, funny, generous person, always willing to lend a hand to anyone that needed help. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and community.

John is survived by his wife, Lois; his step-children Keith Brann (Tami), Kendall Brann (Joan), Brian Gauvin (Betsy); step-grandchildren and a step-great-grandchild; his siblings, Francis “Jerry” Handfield (Val), Carol Valone (Jack), James Handfield (Diane), Philip Handfield (Pam), Elizabeth “Betty” Kasacek (Tony), Charles Handfield (Melinda), Richard Handfield (Deb); many nieces and nephews, and special Aunt, Doris Clark. He is predeceased by his parents. 

A service for John will be held on Saturday, April 6, from 10:30-12:00 at Potter Funeral Home in Willimantic followed by a luncheon gathering at the Windham Golf Club.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Andover Fire Department, 11 School Road, Andover, CT, 06232, or the Andover Food Pantry, P.O. Box 55, Andover, CT, 06232.