John D. Choate

John Dickinson Choate, age 86 years, of West Chester, passed peacefully on April 3, 2023. He was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Mildred Choate (Osborne).

John was an only child and buried both parents by age 30. As a result of both parents dying at a young age, he became a vegetarian and long-distance runner, determined to live out a long, fulfilling life. John took great pleasure in spending summer vacations in Camden, Maine with his family. John had a dry sense of humor and often put others at ease with his jokes.

John graduated from Overbrook High School and PA Military College (now Widener University) with a degree in chemistry. He was a passionate advocate for orphaned cats and dogs and a lifelong volunteer for the SPCA. He was an admirer of theater and the arts and instilled this love in his children.

John is survived by his son, John Choate (Charlene) and grandson, Joseph, and daughter Millie McAveney (Kevin) and grandchildren, Keely, Connor, and Ryan.

John will be missed by his family and friends. Shortly before John passed, he said, “This isn’t goodbye, but see you on the other side.” Charitable donations may be made in John’s name to the Brandywine Valley SPCA at https://bvspca.org. 

Arrangements are by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square. To share a memory with his family, please visit www.griecofunerals.com