John Michael Kilmartin, 74
John Michael Kilmartin passed away peacefully at his Minute Man Arc (MARC) home in Sudbury on December 24, 2025.
Born in Acton on August 6, 1951, John was the fourth of five sons born to M. Frances Dee and Colonel Hugh E. Kilmartin.
A graduate of Acton-Carlisle High School and Cornwall Academy, John’s heart always belonged to West Acton, his home. For over 35 years, he was a dedicated public servant for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, faithfully commuting by train from West Acton to Boston to deliver mail throughout the Lindemann Mental Health Center.
John’s ability to lead a full and vibrant life was made possible through the support of Minute Man Arc for Human Services. During his years at Acton Greene, MARC’s Independent Living program provided the tailored case management and social connections that allowed him to thrive. In retirement, he transitioned into a MARC community house, where he enjoyed compassionate care and the warmth of peer companionship while always maintaining his personal independence and local ties.
His spirit was further nourished by the West Acton Union Church, where he was an active member for many years. John found great joy and belonging in the church’s “Sunday Fellowship” group, a community that embraced him as he lived out his faith.
John was a man of simple and joyful pleasures. He loved playing bingo, cheering for the Red Sox, Patriots, and Celtics, and singing along to the “oldies” and Christmas carols. His favorite memories often involved his many trips to Disney World.
He was predeceased by his brothers Paul and Mark Kilmartin. He leaves behind his brothers, Hon. Peter Kilmartin (Ret.) and Karen Kilmartin of Lincoln and Hugh and Susan Kilmartin of South Yarmouth, and his sister-in-law, Amrit Kilmartin of Doylestown, Pennsylvania. John was a beloved uncle to Peter and Dr. Danielle Kilmartin, Dr. Elizabeth and Peter Saich, Matthew and Ashley Kilmartin, Charles Kilmartin and Railey Jane Savage, and Kourtney Kilmartin. John was also a loving and fun grand-uncle to his four nieces and eight nephews.
John’s life was a testament to the power of community, and he will be remembered for his gentle nature and his enduring love for his hometown.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather for John’s memorial service on Friday, January 2, at 11 a.m. in West Acton Union Church, 1317 Main Street. Private interment will be in St. Bernard’s Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in John’s honor may be made to Minute Man Arc for Human Services (MARC), 35 Forest Ridge Road, Acton, MA 01742.
Arrangements are entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Acton. To share a memory or offer a condolence on John’s tribute page, visit DeeFuneralHome.com.
