John M. Vessels Jr., Shipcarpenter Square co-founder
John "Jack" M. Vessels Jr., 81, of Milton, passed away at home Monday, Jan. 9, 2023. He was born Jan. 15, 1941, in Lewes, son of the late John M. and Sarah (Frick) Vessels.
Jack graduated from Lewes High School Class of 1959. He continued his studies at the University of Delaware, obtaining a bachelor's degree in English literature. After graduating, Jack worked for Sears, first at Price’s Corner, then worked as a customer service manager in King of Prussia until 1974, when he returned to Lewes and begin his next career where he made furniture in an 18th-century manner. His interest in colonial architecture led to the restoration of several homes in Lewes and his development of Shipcarpenter Square, where he personally oversaw the moving and restoration of numerous houses. He was named by the Cape Gazette as "One of the main authorities of historic home restoration in Coastal Delaware.” Jack was responsible for the moving of the Fisher-Martin House in 1981, during the 350th town anniversary; it now serves as Lewes Chamber of Commerce. Other interests included bird carving and oil painting. He was a member of Cape Artists for several years.
In 2014, the Greater Lewes Foundation awarded Jack one of its two annual community service awards. He served as president of the Lewes Chamber of Commerce and helped found the popular Lewes Garden Tour. He was also a member of Lewes City Council for nine years and a member of Delaware Land Trust.
A member of Lewes Presbyterian Church, Jack served on the board of trustees and was an elder. Jack led a men’s Bible study for several years. Jack treasured his family and was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Those who know him cherished his friendship and will sorely miss him.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings: William Long Vessels, Geraldine Vessels Kennedy and Mary Elizabeth Vessels. Jack is survived by his wife of 47 years, Michele (Mickey) Vessels; his children: William Steven Vessels (Toni) and Deborah E. Chorman (Bruce); his grandchildren: Karen Zubrowski (Jon), Sarah Chorman (Shayne) and Bruce Allen Chorman Jr.; his great-grandchildren: Ellie, Charlotte, Lucas and Ashlyn; his beloved dog, Dora, the fox terrier; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Final care for Jack has been entrusted to Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, Lewes.
There will be a memorial service for Jack at Lewes Presbyterian Church in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Jack’s memory to Lewes Presbyterian Church, 133 Kings Hwy., Lewes, DE 19958.
Visit Mr. Vessels’ Life Memorial webpage and sign his virtual guestbook at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
