John Joseph Dolan

John Joseph Dolan, Jr., of Lancaster, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025, at the age of 80, after a lengthy, courageous fight with cancer. Born on August 24, 1945, in Jersey City, New Jersey, John grew up with deep roots in family, faith, dedication, and quiet strength—values that guided him throughout his life.

John graduated from St. Joseph of the Palisades High School (WNY) in 1963, where he was an all-county pitcher his senior year. He was then a proud graduate of The College of the Holy Cross, Class of 1967. While there, he excelled both academically and athletically. A standout pitcher for the Holy Cross baseball team, John earned distinction for one of the lowest single-season ERAs in school history. His love for the game never faded; baseball remained a lifelong passion, whether he was pitching on the mound, cheering from the stands, or sharing the sport with those he loved - particularly his son and grandson. He never missed either of their little league games.

Following college, John honorably served his country as a commissioned officer in the United States Army, attaining the rank of First Lieutenant. A member of a combat engineer unit, he served in Vietnam from 1970 to 1971, where his dedication and service earned him the Bronze Star Medal and other commendations. Following his active duty, he continued his commitment in the Army Reserve before returning home to build his civilian life.

He went on to build an extraordinary professional career as an accountant for nearly fifty years, known for his precision, responsibility, and unwavering work ethic. John approached his career, like every part of his life, with honor, commitment, and pride.

John married the love of his life, Elizabeth “Betty” (Brobeck) Dolan, and together they built a beautiful life grounded in devotion and family. He was a deeply proud father to his son, John Ryan Dolan, and his greatest joy was becoming “Grampy” to his cherished grandson, Aaron Ryan Dolan, who brought endless love, laughter, and pride into his heart.

John is survived by his loving wife, Betty, his son John & his partner Sondra Hardy, and his beloved grandson Aaron. He is also survived by his sister, Geraldine McPeek of Flemington, New Jersey and his brother, Richard Dolan and his wife Teresa of Matawan, New Jersey. He was predeceased by his parents, John J. Dolan, Sr. and Mildred (Condren) Dolan as well as his granddaughter, Claire Elisabeth Dolan.

John loved the simple joys of life—watching and attending baseball games, enjoying trips to the movies, sharing stories, and spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his dry humor, his gentleness, his steadfast nature, and the quiet way he showed love through presence, reliability, and devotion.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, integrity, and family pride. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Calling hours will be held at Lavery  Chartrand  Alario Funeral Home, Fitchburg, on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026 from 9-10:30 AM with Mass to follow at 11:00a.m. in St. Bernard Parish at St. Camillus de Lellis Church 333 Mechanic St.  in Fitchburg. Burial with Military Honors, will be held at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery 111Glenallen St. in Winchendon on Monday, January 5th, 2026 @ 11a.m. All friends and relatives are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’s memory to The Gary Sinise Foundation, honorinans and first respong veterders.