John R. Komisarek of Exeter, NH was proud to have served his country from 1950 to 1953 during the Korean Conflict. Becoming an Airborne Ranger, he was assigned to the 11th Ranger Infantry Company (Airborne) and the 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team (ARCT), known as the “Rakkasans”. Little did he know this intensive military training and experience at 18 years of age would mold the rest of his life. The Ranger motto, “Rangers Lead the Way” along with his “No-Quit” attitude served him well, right to the end!

He worked for many years at PPG Industries in Manchester as a glazier and job foreman, before moving to Exeter in 1979. He and his wife, Liz, owned the Exeter Glass Company on Portsmouth Ave and later, Komo’s Convenience Store on Epping Rd. He loved the small town feel of Exeter and the many friends he made along the way.

When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed many years competing in High Power Rifle Competitions, in New England, Quantico, VA, Port Clinton, OH, and the Canadian Maritime Provinces.

Always wanting to “keep going”, John enjoyed his daily walks in the Exeter Cemetery. He loved being outside in the sun, greeting everyone he met with a smile and saying “A beautiful day to be out here”, “Have a nice day”, and “Thanks for the visit”. He told everyone he wasn’t going to be a grouchy old man, he loved life, and was happy and that’s how he lived it; with a smile on his face and always singing!

Family was his top priority.  John’s was a life well lived! He never missed an opportunity to make a new friend, pet a dog and give them a treat, or do something nice for someone. He always told us that it didn’t cost anything to be nice and we learned from him! He loved to give a firm hand shake and teach the importance of it.