John Kupetz, Jr.

John Louis Kupetz, Jr., 78, of East Burke, VT, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 28, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

John was born on April 20, 1947, in Belmont, MA, to Janet and John Louis Kupetz, Sr. Because of his father’s military service, John spent part of his childhood living overseas on military bases in Morocco and Spain. Eventually, the family settled in Laconia, NH, where John grew up and built lifelong friendships.

John graduated from Nasson College with a bachelor’s degree in history. His love of the outdoors brought him to Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, where he taught history and coached skiing at Lyndon Institute. He later became Director of Burke Mountain’s Ski School and Junior Race Program, where he shared his passion for skiing and the mountains.

Teaching, however, was only one chapter in a life defined by adventure. Drawn to the water, John became a commercial sword fisherman out of Martha’s Vineyard, embracing the hard work, independence, and unpredictability of life at sea. Eventually, family called him back to land, and he returned to Vermont where he began his career as a foreman at Winterset, Inc. in Lyndonville, VT. Owner Jerry Bailey mentored John as he began his new adventure in road construction, forging a strong friendship along the way. Countless stories could be told of John’s many successes, mixed with moments of laughter and the occasional mishap—memories that will be fondly remembered and often retold.

John was remembered for his tireless work ethic and compassion. There was a story for nearly every situation, often shared with humor, insight, and a smile. Whether on the ski slopes, the water, the construction site, or simply in conversation, John left a lasting impression on those around him.

Above all, John cherished his life with his wife, Andrea Kupetz. Together for more than 44 years, John and Andrea truly did everything side by side. They skied, golfed, hunted, gardened, spent time on the water, and shared a deep partnership built on love, laughter, and mutual respect.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Andrea Kupetz; their children, Chris Sylce and Elysha Chapple of Homer, AK; Josh Sycle and Stephanie Goodman of Boise, ID; and Kelley and Joel Goodman of Bellingham, WA; and their seven grandchildren. He is also

survived by his siblings, Bob Kupetz and his wife Karen of Sylvania OH, his sister Deb Hart of Hadden Heights NJ.

He was preceded in death by his son, Jason Kupetz; his brother, Steve Kupetz; and his parents, Janet and John Kupetz Sr.

A celebration of John’s life will be held August 9, 2026, at The Notch House in Westmore at the south end of Willoughby Lake.

Anyone wishing to make a donation in John’s name may do so to Lyndon Outing Club for their snowmaking fund ℅ David Williams, PO Box 759, Lyndonville VT 05851

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.CaledoniaLifeServices.com