John F. Real

WEBSTER – John F. Real, 85, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 25, 2025.

He is survived by his longtime companion, Carol Parenteau of Webster; his daughters, Carolyn Cook and her husband Michael of Round Rock, TX, Kathleen Benoit and her husband Dennis of Charlton, and Lisa Canney and her husband Michael of Charlton; his brother, James Real of Scottsdale, AZ; his sister, Jeannette Piquette and her husband Henry of Voorheesville, NY; grandchildren, Caitlin Bliss, Jon-Patrick Cook, Brett Cook, Chris Benoit, Matt Benoit, Jacob Benoit, Samantha Elworthy, Elizabeth Canney, and Patrick Canney; eight great-grandchildren; and his former wife, Elaine Real of Sturbridge. He also leaves behind Carol’s sons Eric Parenteau from Clinton and John Parenteau from Spencer. He was predeceased by his brother, Francis Real, and his sister Margaret Bourbeau.

He was born in Chicago, IL, son of the late Francis and Jeannette (Flaherty) Real. He graduated from Holyoke High School in 1957 and attended Western New England College where he studied architecture. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves. 

Throughout his life, John designed, built, and sold homes with a remarkable talent for architectural design. Every home he lived in with his family bore his unique touch. Beyond his professional achievements, John was an active member of the Webster Lake Association and a lover of life on the water. He spent many winters living on his sailboat off the coast of Fort Lauderdale, exploring the Caribbean islands and embracing the freedom of the sea. He gave generously to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

A man of many passions, he held a pilot’s license and owned his own airplane taking to the skies with the same adventurous spirit he brought to all aspects of his life. He loved traveling the world, exploring Europe, South America, Asia, and New England in his RV. 

John’s love for cooking made every day a celebration around food, and his optimism turned life’s challenges into opportunities for joy. He was the silver lining in hard times, radiating positivity and inspiring those around him to pursue their dreams without fear. His zest for life will be passed down to his grandchildren and great grandchildren whom he was especially proud of.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 2-5 p.m. at J. Anthony’s Italian Grill, 917 Southbridge St., Auburn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the ALS Association, 1300 Wilson Blvd. Suite 600, Arlington, VA 22209.