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John P. Kamataris

The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution announces with great sorrow the death of former employee John P. Kamataris (J.P) on December 18, 2024, with his family, friends, wife, and daughters by his side. He was 70.

J.P. was born September 4, 1954, the son of Harry A. Kamataris and Audrey Kamataris. He was raised and lived in Falmouth, MA.

In his younger years, J.P. was an avid participant in sports, beginning with Little League baseball for the Falmouth Hornets. He played football all four years of high school, was Co-Captain in junior and senior years, and was Captain of the hockey team. He was also Junior class president. Years later, he coached Little League hockey for Falmouth.

J.P. began his career as a Merchant Marine, spanning over 45 years.  He began working at WHOI in 1979 as an AB aboard the R/V Oceanus. In 1981, he began working on the R/V Knorr and retired in 1988 as 3rd Mate. During his time at WHOI, he participated in the discovery of the Titanic. This was followed by his long career with the Steamship Authority. During his retirement years, J.P. enjoyed managing the Mashpee Transfer Station.

In the summer, J.P. took every opportunity to be on the water, as he loved fishing with his family and friends and making his annual winter trip to New York for hunting camp. There is nothing J.P. loved more than sitting around a table with those he loved, sharing a good story with lots of laughter, and listening to great music.

In his passing, he was preceded by his mother and father and his brother, Harry L. Kamataris. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl A. Kamataris; his daughters, Alexandra K. Kamataris and Audrey E. Kamataris; his grandsons, Dante E. Kamataris and Raycen H. Teixeira; his sisters, Paula H. Judge, Jayne L. Reeves and Ann M. Rennie, and his nephews, and nieces.

J.P. was a dedicated husband and father to his daughters, a dedicated grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend. We are grateful for every moment we had with him. He will be missed dearly.

Visitation will take place on January 4, 2025, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Chapmen Funeral Home, 475 Main Street, Falmouth, MA.

Information for this obituary is from the Falmouth Enterprise