John Meader ... longtime member of Rochester Masons lodge; at 87

FARMINGTON - John David Meader, 87, passed away peacefully Tuesday January 20, 2026, at Watson Assisted Living, following a period of failing health.

Born August 31, 1938, in Rochester, NH he was the son of the late John M. and Frieda (Abbott) Meader. David was a graduated of Spaulding High School class of 1956.

David worked for the State of NH Public Works and Highways for 37 years before retiring. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserves (76 Division) for 35 years, retiring as a Sergeant Major.

He was a devoted member of the Humane Lodge# 21 of Rochester, NH for 65 years. He was also a member of NH Grand Royal Arch Chapter; NH Grand Council of Cryptic Masons; NH Grand Commandery and the NH Bektash Shrine.

In his younger years, David enjoyed summer fun at his family cottage at Meader's Point on Merrymeeting Lake, swimming, water skiing and especially the Saturday night parties with friends. He was always known to enjoy a cup of coffee with the guys at their favorite spots, the Pink Cadillac, Dunkin Donut and McDonalds'. He also liked traveling to Hawaii and going to Alaska fishing with his army buddies.

Members of his family include his wife of 55 years Carolyn (Stone) Meader of Farmington, NH; his brother in law Reggie Stone and wife Janet of Rochester, NH; his two nephews Derek and Jennifer Stone and family of Hooksett, NH; and Chris and Melissa Stone and family of New Kent, VA; his cousins Craig Meader of New Durham NH and Rick and Hope (Meader) Cinquegrana of Middlebury VT and his lifelong friend J. Hiram Watson and wife Nancy of Farmington, NH.

David's family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Cornerstone Hospice and Watson Fields Assisted Living for the wonderful care he received.