John R. Crystal

John R. Crystal, 79, of Springvale, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the Lodges Care Center in Springvale, surrounded by love and the comfort of his family.

John was born on March 26, 1946, in Torrington, Connecticut, where he grew up and attended local schools. Following his graduation from high school, John proudly enlisted in the United States Navy. He served his country with honor for four years aboard the USS Constellation, During the Vietnam War, forging lifelong friendships and memories during his time at sea.

While stationed in Georgia finishing the final year of his military service, fate soon introduced him to the love of his life, Katherine who was visiting from Louisiana with a friend. The two were married and went on to share nearly 58 wonderful years together. With great pride and devotion, John adopted Katherine’s three children as his own, and together they built a loving, blended family, later welcoming another child into their lives, once they had resided to his hometown of Torrington, Connecticut.

In 1977, the Crystal family made their home in Maine, where John began working briefly at Prime Tanning before starting a long and fulfilling career as an inspector at Pratt & Whitney. He retired in 2001, but John was not one to sit idle. His strong sense of duty and service to others led him to volunteer with the Shapleigh Fire Department, where he served faithfully for many years and ultimately became Chief. He also worked part-time as a funeral attendant at Heald Funeral Home in Springvale, offering his trademark warmth and compassion to families in need.

John’s faith was an important part of his life. He served as a deacon at the North Parish Congregational Church from 1978 to 1985 and later volunteered to provide security at Curtis Lake Church in Sanford. In both his work and service, John was guided by kindness, humility, and a genuine desire to help others.

Outside of his many commitments, John was happiest in nature. He loved hunting, fishing, birdwatching, and spending quiet moments outdoors. His daily walks were a cherished routine, offering him time to reflect and enjoy the world around him. John’s greatest joy, however, was always his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he was endlessly proud of those he loved. He cared tenderly for his mother in her later years, embodying the same compassion and patience he showed throughout his life.

Those who knew John will remember him as a friendly, outgoing man who never met a stranger. He had an easy way with people and could turn even the briefest encounter into a heartfelt conversation. His presence brought warmth, humor, and light to those around him—and his absence will be deeply felt.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Katherine Crystal of Springvale; his four children: Cory Crystal of Lebanon; Sandy Richer and her husband Danny of Sanford; Michelle Crystal and her husband Nick Costa of Longmont, Colorado; and Dawn Lalime of Shapleigh; nine grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. He is also survived by his brother, Don Cimarron Crystal and his wife Nancy of Rochester, New Hampshire, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his loving mother, Marjorie Seaton Olson.

“His master said to him, well done, good and faithful servant! You were faithful over a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Share your joy.” Matthew 25:21

A graveside service with military honors will be held in the spring at the Southern Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Stanley Road in Springvale.

Those wishing to honor John’s memory are invited to make a donation to the Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301, or online at https://help.dav.org/page/53021/donate.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Black, Heald & Walker Funeral Home, Sanford–Springvale.