John J. Burgeson of Stratford, CT, a dedicated journalist and teacher, ardent conservationist and friend to all, passed away on November 2, 2024. Born May 12, 1953, in Bristol, CT, he was the devoted son of Oscar and Theresa (Gentile) Burgeson, who he helped immeasurably in their later years.  On Aug. 14, he celebrated 42 years of marriage to the love of his life, Marilyn (Boyd) Burgeson. Besides his wife, he is survived by his son Benjamin Burgeson of Stamford, who was with him throughout his recent illness.

He graduated from Bristol Central High School in 1971, where he was president of the ski club and lettered in tennis, and The University of Colorado in 1975, where he enjoyed rock climbing, cycling, and skiing. John started out as news reporter for KHAS-Radio in Hastings, Nebraska, and then went on to a 40-year career as reporter and editor for the Connecticut Post newspaper before retiring in 2018. He was a beloved science instructor for Bridgeport Adult Education for 35 years as well. In both of these roles, he made a huge difference in the lives of so many. He served on the Board of City Lights Gallery and volunteered at many events in Stratford and Bridgeport and was an active member and supporter of the Bridgeport Symphony.

John enjoyed cooking elaborate family meals for the holidays and there was always room at the table. He was a skilled writer and an avid reader who was a "walking encyclopedia" of information which he loved to share. He had wide-ranging interests, from stamp collecting and kite-flying to jazz and the history of polar exploration. He enjoyed traveling with his family throughout the world, hiked Mt. Katahdin and Montana's Glacier National Park, competed in bike racing and completed the 40-mile NYC Five Boro Bike Tour.

He was an excellent photographer utilizing classic film developing techniques and was awarded Honorable Mention by the Stratford Community Fund photo contest. He also earned the Publishers award from the Connecticut Post.

John is also survived by his loving sister Beth Burgeson (Thom Serrani) of Ludlow, VT, uncle Arthur Bergeson of McLean, VA, aunt Lorraine Gentile of Barkhamsted, CT, numerous cousins, and a large extended family, all of whom were an important part of his life. He maintained close connections with a wide network of family and friends from his years at school and his long career in journalism. He would easily strike up a conversation with anyone and everyone about anything. His humor, wise words and loyalty will be greatly missed by so many.  The family wishes to thank the caring staff of Smilow Cancer Center for enabling John to be at home with his family.

Friends and family may visit John's family on Thursday, November 14, 2024, from 4-7 p.m. in the Adzima Funeral Home 50 Paradise Green Place Stratford. All other services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Connecticut Food Bank.