John J. Couture, 84, died peacefully at home on Friday, July 14, 2017. John was born in Lebanon, NH, the son of Albert E. and Regina H. (Beliveau) Couture and has lived in Rutland for many years.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Jeanne K. (Simonds) Couture; his sons, Thomas A. Couture and his wife, Marie of Herndon, VA, Anthony J. Couture of Brockton and Timothy E. Couture and his wife, Lisa of West Palm Beach, FL; eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Robert E. Couture.

John proudly served his country by enlisting in the United States Navy during the Korean conflict. With a passion for learning, John earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in education from Keene State University. He married the love of his life, Jeanne Simonds in 1956 and the couple made their home in Rutland. John had a fruitful 31 years in the Holden Schools, retiring in 1990. As principal of Jefferson and later Chaffin’s Schools in Holden he had a positive influence on many students and faculty. John had been active in the American Association of School Administrators, National Education Association, Massachusetts Principal Association as well as the National Principal Association. He was a parishioner of Saint Patrick’s Church in Rutland.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 5-8 pm on Monday, July 17th at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am on Tuesday, July 18th at St. Patrick’s Church, 258 Main St., Rutland. Burial will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Avenue, Paxton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one’s choosing.