John J. Andreoni, of Lincoln, passed away peacefully at home at the young age of 97 on Monday, Oct. 28. He was surrounded by his loving family in his home that he built for the breathtaking view that overlooked the cities below.

Earlier this year, John and his devoted wife, Muriel, had celebrated 50 years of marriage.

John was born in Pawtucket to the late Giovanni and Palma Andreoni. John leaves behind five children, his three and Muriel’s two: Dr. Laurie Andreoni (Dave Wilson), John Mark, Lisa Gefken (Paul), Lorene Hamel (Michael), and Kurt “Rich” Bittner; daughters-in-law Debbie Andreoni and Terri Bittner. He was the proud Papa to 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. John is also survived by his sister-in-law Claire Andreoni and many nephews and nieces.

John was predeceased by his brothers, sister and sisters-in-law, Aurelio (Charlotte), Aldo (Clare), Leo, Dorina, and his former wife, Yvette Andreoni.

John was a man of many talents and accomplishments, with the vision and strength to create the spectacular landscape that surrounded their home. He worked for many years as the purchasing agent for the former Valley Gas Company, before becoming a real estate agent for Ferland Corp. He later became a partner at Chemawa GolfvCourse until the opportunity arose to purchase Patterson’s Market from his brother, Aldo, which he later sold to his son, Mark. John also owned and operated Beirut Bakery until he semi-retired and helped the new owners, Muriel, Lorene and Rich, run Andreoni’s Market (formerly Patterson’s). ln his spare time he assisted his godson, John Somyk, in developing several properties in the Lincoln area. John was also a proud member of the Lincoln Lions Club for many years.

John’s greatest pride was his home and family; he had unbounding energy to create an atmosphere for celebrating with family and leaves a legacy of loving memories through his labors of love and strong work ethic. Along with his family, he built and continually developed his hilltop home, with rock walls, vibrant gardens and treasures he salvaged for paths, brick patios and his cobblestone driveway.

His funeral services will take place at a later date to allow his family to all be together to celebrate his life.