John F. Girard, Sr.died on August 12, 2018 from a traumatic brain injury sustained as the result of a bicycle accident on August 4th in Norwich, Vermont. He died peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Somerville, Massachusetts to Howard and Eleanor (McAuliffe) Girard on April 17, 1939, John graduated from Saint Clement's High School, Boston University, and Boston State College.

John's long and fulfilling career as an elementary school math and science teacher at Norwich Marion Cross School spanned 47 years. During that time, John, widely and fondly known as "Mr. G", shared his love of learning with generations of students and parents, inspiring countless students to pursue their passions and follow their dreams. Athletes and sports fans of all ages will also remember Mr. G as an ever-present coach and sports official in Norwich and throughout Vermont and New Hampshire. One of the most enduring and powerful memories we will all share of Mr. G – whether it was in the classroom, on the field, or in the gym – is that he saw and honored the very best in each and every one of us.

John was devoted to his family, friends and faith. He is survived by his wife Catherine (Cathy) of 53 years; his children John Girard, Jr. (April), Lauren Girard Adams (Rob), Michael Girard (Nuala) and Linsey Girard Capps; his cherished grandchildren Tommy Girard, Charlie, Caroline, Elijah and Alyssa Adams, Lily, Patrice and Michael Girard, and Sophia and Nicholas Capps; his sisters Mary Matthews, Arline Ardolino and Rose Girard (Rob Turner); in-laws Rita and Wallace McLean, Joseph and Mary Culverhouse and Robert and Elaine Culverhouse; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
There will be no calling hours.

We will celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial on August 25, 2018 at 10:30 AM at Saint Denis Catholic Church, Lebanon Street, Hanover, New Hampshire with Father Brian M. Mulcahy , O.P. officiating. Burial will follow immediately at Hillside Cemetery in Norwich. Family, and friends, and the many others whose lives John touched are invited to join us for a picnic and celebration of John's extraordinary life at Girard Field, Huntley Meadow, Turnpike Road, Norwich, Vermont from 1 PM to 4 PM. Remarks at 1:30 PM will be followed by a baseball game for children on the ball Mr. G's favorite field Mr. G loved so much. Please feel free to bring a dish to share. The rain venue will be in the John Girard Gymnasium at, Marion Cross School in Norwich.


Generations of Norwich and Upper Valley residents have shared in, and benefitted from Mr. G's love of sports through the recreation programs he started in Norwich many years ago, including Mr. G's children and grandchildren. In honor of our dad, John's, Mr. G's children are starting the John Girard Fund to support athletic facilities and access for all children to engage in sports in Norwich. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Town of Norwich - Recreation Department. (John Girard Fund).

John's family is grateful to the early responders and the neurosurgery, trauma and ICU teams at DHMC for the care, compassion and dignity that they bestowed upon John during his final days.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Rand-Wilson Funeral Home of Hanover, NH.