John Wynd
Published 1:46 pm Saturday, November 27, 2021
John Wynd passed away in the early morning hours of November 19 under a full moon, at about the time of the lunar eclipse. John was born November 4, 1949, in Salem, Massachusetts to his parents Leo and Ann Wynd of Amherst, NY, where he was raised. John graduated from Alfred University with a degree in Ceramic Engineering. John spent his career in the glass manufacturing industry, working in California, New Jersey and West Virginia before a long tenure at Philips Lighting in Danville, KY. As a nationally recognized expert on glass, John’s skills took him on international assignments to India, South America and Europe. He was known as a problem-solver who could find a way to unravel complex technical problems using his deep knowledge of mathematics, chemistry, mechanical engineering, thermodynamics and other disciplines. John retired from Philips in 2009 to spend more time with his wife, Trish, and his many hobbies that included RVing, restoration of his 1959 Triumph TR3 sports car, reading and gardening. John never stopped learning. He spent hours every day researching a wide variety of interests to him – economic theory, American and European history, engineering and other subjects. He had an incredible memory. Even in retirement, he was able to help his grandchildren with math problems, recalling principles and equations from memory. He learned deeply and taught well.
John made an indelible impact on those who knew him. He made lifelong friends without prejudice and did not judge others. He was known for his great sense of humor, ability to spontaneously break out in song, dance with abandon and let loose a genuine smile that said he was happy to be alive. John generously extended his time and talent to others. As a skilled handyman, his expertise was sought by many, for whom he was the “go-to” resource. John’s greatest accomplishment is family. He and Trish were married for 47 full years. John was a leader for his young sons Jeff and Ben and taught them carpentry, home renovation, auto repair and other life skills. He loved being a part of their lives. John made close friends of relatives in his extended family and was highly respected by all. John was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Alan Wynd. John is survived by a son, Benjamin Patrick Wynd (Rebecca) and their children Mckayla and Elijah Wynd, of Franklin, Tennessee; and Jeffrey’s children, Helena Wynd of Seattle, Washington, Jackson Wynd, who is currently serving in the Navy, stationed in the Great Lakes; a sister, Diana Smith (Steve) of Fairport, New York; he leaves behind eleven nieces and nephews and special Griffin family members, Margie, Joe, and Kathy. A celebration of life service will be held at 11 am on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at The Presbyterian Church of Danville with Rev. Caroline Kelley and Father Norman Fischer officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday, December 3, 2021, from 6-8 pm at Preston Pruitt Spurlin Funeral Home. Memorial contributions are preferred to: Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund (JDRF), PO Box 37920 Boone, IA 50037-0920 (due to the impact that Diabetes has had on the family); or Wilderness Trace Child Development Center 409 N Stewarts Ln Danville, Ky 40422. www.preston-pruitt.com