John Francis Chisholm of Newton, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 25, 2026, with his beloved wife by his side.

John was born on March 22, 1936, in rural Bismarck, South Dakota. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose life was defined by both his creativity and his deep commitment to those he loved. He shared a lifelong partnership with his wife, Margery Chisholm, and together they built a family grounded in love, support, and connection.

He attended Yale University for architecture, a path that brought him to the East Coast and shaped the course of his life and career.

A man of Catholic faith, John carried his beliefs quietly and sincerely throughout his life.

A talented architect who ran his own firm in Boston, John was a builder at heart. He took pride not only in the structures he designed, but in the care, vision, and craftsmanship behind them. Beyond his profession, he was a true artist, finding joy in drawing, painting, and sculpture, and always exploring new ways to create and express himself.

Shaped by the spirit of his generation, John valued creativity, individuality, and open-mindedness. He believed strongly in diversity and carried that belief into both his work and his relationships, approaching the world with curiosity and respect.

Though often quiet, he was loud when needed—a steady, thoughtful presence with a voice that carried when it mattered most. He also loved dogs and had a lifelong enjoyment of sports, simple pleasures that brought him happiness and connection.

He was a proud father to Megan Wendorf (Kirk), John Chisholm (Audra), Amy Apigian (David), and Matt Chisholm (Lauren). In addition to his wife, Margery, John is also survived by his twelve grandchildren—Ryan, Graham, Connor, Caroline, and James Chisholm; Annabelle and Oliver Apigian; Max, Jack, and Tarin North; and Henry and Annie Wendorf—who brought him immense joy and pride.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Helen Chisholm; by his sister, Jane Ryan, and brother-in-law, Ed Ryan; and by his brother, Don. He is survived by sister-in-law Sandy.

John will be remembered for his creativity, his steady presence, and the way he built—through his work, his passions, his faith, and most importantly, his family—a lasting and meaningful legacy.

He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, May 2nd at 11AM in St. Bernard Church, 1523 Washington St. West Newton followed by interment in Newton Cemetery. Visiting hours will be held Friday, May 1st from 4-7PM in the Burke & Blackington Funeral Home, West Newton.