John Swain Moretti

HUBBARDSTON- John Swain Moretti, 69, of Hubbardston, died Friday, December 11, in his home with his wife of 43 years, Diane (Sharrock) Moretti, at his bedside. John was born December 18, 1950, in Rockville Center, NY, son of Frances (Swain) and the late Whitfield Moretti. John was a respected Massachusetts Certified Horticulturist working for Weston Nurseries, Hopkinton since1982. His extensive knowledge and sage advice on planting and caring for turf, shrubs, and trees was highly-valued by both colleagues and customers. As a longtime trustee at the First Congregational Church in Gardner, he was active in ensuring the church building was well-maintained and preserved for future generations. He especially enjoyed the music of the church’s magnificent organ. John believed that one’s responsibility was to accomplish something every single day, whether at work or at home. He was a man of integrity and a role model in every aspect of his life, professionally and personally. He treated everyone with kindness. His wonderful sense of humor, enthusiasm for life and quirky laugh will be missed. Besides his wife, he leaves his mother Frances Moretti of Acton; his son, Thomas Moretti and Tom’s fiancé, Claire Hunter of Shirley; his daughter, Caroline Barba and her husband, Paul of Granby; two grandchildren, Isaac John and Ramona Jo Barba and one grandson expected in January; five siblings, Michael Moretti of Stow and longtime companion, Ann Purcell, Martha Shane, wife of the late Arthur Shane, Peter Moretti and his wife, Bonnie of Montague, Elizabeth Farrar and her husband, Keith of Bethlehem, NH and Paul Moretti and his wife, Lola of Stow; many nieces and nephews. The funeral will be live-streamed Wednesday, December 16, at 9 a.m. Please visit John’s obituary at www.mackfamilyfh.com to virtually attend or to leave a message of condolence. Burial with military honors will be private at the Massachusetts Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Congregational Church, Organ Restoration Fund, 28 Green St., Gardner, MA 01440 or to the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) Charitable Service Trust, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250.