PEMBROKE- Retired Asst. Pembroke Fire Chief John C. Theuner, 91, of Pembroke, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 28, 2025 in the care of the Granite VNA Hospice House after a period of declining health.

Born in Goffstown, John was the son of the late George H. and Dorothy F. (Wilson) Theuner. He was raised and educated in New Boston and was a graduate of New Boston High School Class of 1951.

In earlier years, John worked as a truck driver for Worthmore Grain Co. He later matriculated to PSNH, where he worked for over 20 years before retiring in 1992. John continued to work for over 17 years after retirement for Pembroke Towing and spent many years at the State House working for the Sergeant At Arms.

Affectionately known around town as “Chief,” John’s true passion was for the fire service. He enjoyed an illustrious 59-year career of service to the Town of Pembroke, retiring as Assistant Chief in 2021. He was a founding member of the Tri-Town Ambulance Service in 1972. He served as the Town Fire Warden for 33 years and was appointed Warden Emeritus in 2021. In 2022, he was honored by the Pembroke Fire Department during the dedication of their new forestry tanker truck which they so aptly named “Chief John.” Chief was once again recognized in 2023 as Pembroke’s Citizen of the Year, honoring his selfless service to a town he loved so dearly.

Chief was a member of the Jewell Lodge #94 for 44 years and was awarded Honorary Past Master. He was a member of the Horace Chase Lodge #72, the Bektash Shriners in Concord and the American Legion Sweeney Post #0002 in Manchester as well as a charter member of the William P.H. Tavern Lodge #1789 in Portsmouth and the General Court Lodge #1784 in Concord.

Aside from his public service, “Pa” enjoyed helping others above all else. He loved working with fire trucks and was always ready to play a game of cribbage. His smile, laughter and quick wit will remain in the hearts of many.

John was predeceased by his beloved wife of 70 years, Lois S. (Schneiderheinze) Theuner, whom he missed dearly.

He is survived by his two daughters: Lynne Theuner and her partner David Norman of Hooksett and Joyce Swan of Meredith as well as his numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends and colleagues.

Calling Hours will be held on Friday, January 31st from 4 to 7 P.M. in the Pembroke Fire Station, 247 Pembroke St. in Pembroke. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 1st at 11 A.M. in the Station. Parking at the Station is limited and overflow parking will be available at Pembroke Academy. Burial will take place privately with the family in the Spring. In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be sent to the Granite VNA Hospice House, 30 Pillsbury St. Concord, NH 03301. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.roanfamilyfuneral.com