Lebanon, NH – John D. Eastman passed away on February 8, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on December 8, 1953, to Harold John Eastman and Arlene Blanche (Dow) Eastman of Quechee, Vermont.
John grew up with his five siblings on his family’s Quechee Fells Farm, where he learned the value of hard work, compassion, and helping others. He often shared fond memories of his childhood and developed a lifelong love of people, animals, and the land.
After graduating from Hartford High School in 1971, John earned an Associate Degree in Applied Science from Vermont Technical College, a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Vermont, and later a second Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology from the University of New Hampshire.
John married Linda (Curlott) Eastman in 1975, and together they raised two daughters, Jennifer L. Eastman and Alison M. (Eastman) Gaffney, in Quechee, Vermont.
He worked at Billings/Idlenot Farm Dairy before beginning a career as a microbiologist at Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital in 1986, where he served for over 20 years. In retirement, John founded Eastman of Quechee Fells Land Maintenance, enjoying his work on his John Deere tractors and always lending a hand to those in need.
John was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Lois (Eastman) Hall; his brothers, Harold “Buster” Eastman and David Lawrance Eastman; as well as his niece, Jenny Rebecca Morris and nephew James “Jimmy” Barrett.
He is survived by his daughters, Jennifer Eastman and Alison (Eastman) Gaffney; his partner of 35 years, Leann Cushman; his sisters, Terry (Eastman) Kirrane and Cynthia Arlene (Eastman) Morris; his son-in-law, Jason Gaffney; and his grandchildren, Alexander David Eastman and Kalyn Marie Gaffney, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held on May 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Quechee Hilltop Cemetery, followed by a reception. Arrangements are under the care of Ricker’s Funeral Home in Lebanon, NH. An online guest book is avaialable to leave a message of condolence for John’s family by visiting www.rickerfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Norris Cotton Cancer Center or The Prouty at Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth.
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