John P. Barron, 98, of Worcester, died Thursday, September 12, 2013 in his home surrounded by family.
     His wife of 56 years, Nettie E. (Sharpe) Barron died in 2001. He leaves four daughters, Judy Kelley and her husband Wayne of Wayland, Dorothy Shea, wife of the late Phillip Shea, of Worcester, Joan Shomphe and her husband David of Marlborough and Elaine Finneran of Worcester; ten grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. His brother Anthony Barron predeceased him.
     He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife Nettie, and adoring father to his four daughters. He stressed the importance of a good education, and encouraged his daughters to become the best people they could be. He has a passion for politics, following local, national and global events with keen interest, never failing to vote in every election. A true “jack of all trades” he knew how to repair just about everything from cars to plumbing, to patching a roof, or fixing faulty electrical wiring. He shared his valuable advice with his daughters and later their husbands and children. His kindness, patience and wisdom touched each generation of his family.
     John was born in Worcester, son of Andrew and Elizabeth (Letsky) Barron and lived in Worcester most his life. He was a graduate of North High School.
     John was a Navy veteran of World War II, serving as a medic.
     He worked for the American Steel & Wire Division of U.S. Steel Corp. in Worcester for more than 35 years, retiring in 1975. He began with the company at the Northworks plant and later moved to its Southworks plant. Early in his career, he worked on the manufacturing of the cables for the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.
     John represented his union local as a compensation agent for the U.S. Steelworkers of America. In retirement, He was extremely active with his U.S. Steel Retirees Social Club. He was its longtime secretary, editor of its newsletter, and organizer of many of its events.
He was also a devoted member of St. Stephen’s Church.
     His active lifestyle embodied his personal philosophy on aging. He lived independently, on his own, determined to never be a burden to his family.
     Calling hours are Monday, Sept. 16 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St., Worcester. The funeral will be Tuesday, Sept. 17 from the funeral home with a Mass at 10 a.m. at St. Stephen’s Church, 357 Grafton St., Worcester. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Stephen’s Parish, 16 Hamilton St., Worcester 01604.