ROCKPORT — John “Chowdah” Cummings, 83, peacefully left this earth on Wednesday, April 13, 2022, while at the Sussman House in Rockport.

Born in Machias, December 9, 1938, he was the son of James and Helen Chandler Cummings. John was the loving husband of Linda Wheaton Cummings, his high school sweetheart.

He attended Machias Memorial High School, and graduated in the class of 1957. Then went on to earn his degree from Eastern New Mexico University. John was a proud Veteran of the United States Air Force. He went on to work in the wholesale furniture business on the west coast for 38 years. He made many friends on his journey out west. John was known for his tireless work habits and honesty, laughter and positive attitude.

In 1998, John and Linda decided to move back home to Maine. Though, they were home, they spent their winters during retirement in Florida, where he volunteered at Habitat for Humanity for 12 years and at many food banks. He and Linda enjoyed their camp on the lake sitting by the campfire and time with grandchildren, family and friends. John loved the outdoors, gardening, composting, picnicking, canoeing, and his two faithful cats. He watched the Red Sox faithfully and was passionate about doing his part to preserve the Earth. He was a friend to all. With a hearty laugh and whistling song, he left us.

Predeceased by his parents and three brothers: James, Melvin and Donald.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; his children, Scott and Lisa Cummings, Michel and Holly Cummings, Brenda and Curtis Hatridge, Cheryl Palmer, Joel and Hue Harshaw, Randy and Leslie Harshaw, Dennis and Jeanne Harshaw, Haley and Mark Anderson; his grandchildren, Chris, Danielle, Josh, Jeremy, Holly, Matt, Caitlyn, Austen, Catherine, Tommy, Natalie, Cameron, Connor, Joel, Chelsea, Rachel, Gracie, Sophia; great-grandchildren, Jacob, Abby, Ella, Parker, Ally, Dalton, Mason, Allyson, Daniel and Junior, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. He loved them all.

John was a friend of the People’s United Methodist Church in South Thomaston. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to donate in his memory may do so at P.O. Box 83, South Thomaston, Maine 04858.

To share a memory or story with John’s family, please visit their online Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com 

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter and Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.