Thursday, October 7, 2021
I was very saddened to learn of the passing of John. He started off as one of my first clients in 1989, but became a friend for over 30 years. He gave a young naïve 22-year-old starting a computer business a chance and I will never forget it. He was the only client who ever told me I charged too little.
He sponsored me for the Rye Rotary and introduced to me to so many people that allowed my business to flourish.
He always introduced me to people with the nickname “Boy Wonder”. Occasionally with a wink and an elbow, he would introduce me as the “The Boy Blunder”.
When I incorporated my business, and when I was the executor for my dad in 2003, John was there for me. Despite me asking countless times, I never recall getting a bill from him.
I remember when I bought my first house in Dutchess County in 1995, I told John I was going to be planting a garden that day. A few hours later I was in my garden and Farmer John showed up with a very expensive pitchfork as a housewarming gift. He said he was “in the area” despite living an hour away.
I will miss him very much; our lunches, his boisterous laugh, his awful jokes, and being copied on endless memorandum. Mostly he will be remembered for his generosity and kindness.
I found nothing more appropriate then having trees planted in “Farmer Johns” memory that will provide oxygen to so many people for decades to come.
I offer my condolences to Phyllis and the entire family.
John S Pontillo aka BW
