DOVER-FOXCROFT – John S. Natyks, 88, passed away Dec. 4, 2008, at the Southern Arizona Veterans’ Administration Hospital, Tucson, Ariz. He was born Jan. 11, 1920, in Monson, the son of Joseph and Judith (Olson) Natyks. He attended Monson and Dover-Foxcroft schools. In 1940 he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed at the Coast Artillery in New Bedford, Mass. He was transferred to the Military Police and stationed in Boston until his discharge in 1943. One of his duties was to accompany Army prisoners, by train, to their home posts. These trips took him to many places across the country. John worked for the State of Maine Department of Transportation until he retired after 29 years. John was a dedicated veteran and an avid troop greeter. He considered it an honor and a privilege to meet and welcome our military troops passing through Bangor International Airport, regardless of the weather or time of day or night. He was a member of American Legion Post No. 29, Dover-Foxcroft, and the National Rifle Association. He had a great knowledge of firearms and how to use them. He was an outdoor person, and enjoyed fishing and hunting. He loved spending days at his hunting camp. He also enjoyed riding around the back roads, looking at the deer. Spectator sports were always an interest. His favorites were the Boston Red Sox and Atlanta Braves. He was a kind and caring person for his family and friends, and always had a greeting to persons he met on the street, whether knowing them or not. He was a devoted family person and enjoyed the many family gatherings for picnics and get-togethers. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends. He is survived by two very special nieces and their husbands, Anabel and Robb Gray of Tucson, Ariz., and Lynn and Dennis Henderson of Malvern, Ark.; two great-nephews, Brandon Ackley and his wife, Nicole, of Greensboro, N.C., and Dustin Whitmore of Standish; a sister-in-law, Candida Venott of Dover-Foxcroft; several cousins and family members. John was predeceased by one sister, Elaine Naticks; one brother, Henry Venott; and his parents. At John’s request, a memorial service will be held at a later date. Burial will be in the family lot at Dover Cemetery. Those who wish may contribute in his memory to the Troop Support Fund, P.O. Box 246, Brewer, ME 04412 or at www.mainetroopgreeters.com. Arrangements are by Lary Funeral Home, Dover-Foxcroft. Messages of condolence and memories may be expressed at www.laryfuneralhome.com.
JOHN S. NATYKS
