ST. JOHNSBURY — Johan F. Naess, 88, of Barnet, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at Northern Vermont Regional Hospital.

Born on January 27, 1938, to Olaf and Marian (Stoddard) Naess in Rutland, Vermont, he graduated from Black River High School, Ottawa University, and earned a Master’s degree from Boston College. He also proudly served in the Army National Guard.

On July 1, 1961, Johan married his wife, Suzanne, in Ludlow. They brought up three children, raising them in Montpelier and Barre, before retiring in West Barnet.

Johan taught science at Montpelier High School, where he also coached skiing, track and cross-country and was instrumental in building a ski jump in Hubbard Park for the ski team. He later taught for many years at Websterville Baptist Christian School. He enjoyed coaching his children and grandchildren in their school sports and taught three generations of his family how to ski.

He remained active throughout his life, running in multiple marathons and co-founding the Tuesday Night Fun Runs in Montpelier in the early 70’s. Johan shared his father’s love of skiing, worked at Sugarbush and Burke Mountain and skied through his 88th birthday.

He leaves behind his wife Suzanne, daughter Cynthia Duprey (Bill), sons Eric Naess (Stephanie), Brian Naess (Sarah), eleven grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Throughout his life, he was actively involved in his community serving on multiple volunteer fire departments. His faith and involvement in the local church was a cornerstone of his life.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Hooker Whitcomb Funeral Home, 7 Academy Street, Suite 1, Barre, Vermont.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Hooker Whitcomb Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Pleasant View Cemetery in Ludlow at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial donations in Johan’s honor to:

Barnet Fire & Rescue Department 151 Bimson Dr PO Box 119 Barnet, VT 05821

Or

Covered Bridge Recovery Ministry covered-bridge.org or mailed to PO Box 569, Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819