John James Emanuel Markham, II
On Friday, July 12th, John James Emanuel Markham, II passed away in his home in Friendship, Maine, surrounded by family members and listening to the sounds of the sea. He died as a result of complications following a heart attack last year, but in the big picture, his death was the result of his remarkable life: one he lived exuberantly, sometimes even defiantly, in spite of the many health crises he faced over the years that he overcame with grit and eternal positivity.
Obituary
John Markham
On Friday, July 12th, John James Emanuel Markham, II passed away in his home in Friendship, Maine, surrounded by family members and listening to the sounds of the sea. He died as a result of complications following a heart attack last year, but in the big picture, his death was the result of his remarkable life: one he lived exuberantly, sometimes even defiantly, in spite of the many health crises he faced over the years that he overcame with grit and eternal positivity. John was a man who loved life and who reveled in being alive.
He was born in 1947 in New Haven, CT and raised along with his sister, Betsy, and brother, Jesse (Bill), in Nashville, TN, Princeton, NJ, and Cambridge, MA. He was a beloved troublemaker who once cut class by asking the teacher a complicated question and, when she turned to the chalkboard to answer it, jumping out the window. He graduated from Roanoke College and found his true calling in the Law. He attended Washington and Lee University Law School where he was the editor its law review journal and graduated second in his class in 1972.
Anyone who knew him understood that John was a singular, larger than life character. He was a raconteur of the highest order, relishing in both the tale and its telling. He was also a relentless optimist, certain that the fog was always just about to lift, that this would be the season the Jets would win big (go, Jets). He was a lifelong learner, always ready to complicate and amend his understanding of politics, history and the world at large. He was also a person who could—and did—connect with anyone and everyone he met. A one-man cheering squad who delighted in giving counsel to others, he saw and believed in the best of people. He was also singularly generous: what was his was for the giving. He loved to order too much food and buy too much dessert. He was the life of the party. With him, even the most hum-drum of occasions was a celebration.
John was a patriot in the sense that he believed deeply in this country’s promise, and his devotion to his country, its people, and its principles manifested itself in his love of the law. John loved practicing law, teaching law (both formally and informally), and using the law to help his clients, friends, and family. He began his legal career at a Wall Street law firm (Shearman & Sterling) and later became partner at a law firm in San Francisco (Lillick, McHose & Charles, now Nixon Peabody), where he met his wife. He then decided to chart a new course, serving as a federal prosecutor in San Diego, San Francisco, and Boston where he was the Chief of the Major Frauds Section. John also taught courses in evidence and criminal law and procedure at Harvard Law School, Santa Clara Law, and the Attorney General’s Advocacy Institute. John was immensely proud of his work as a prosecutor and professor but in 1990, he launched his greatest professional joy: the law practice of Markham and Read, which he founded with his wife, Liz. As someone who possessed a bottomless well of empathy, a drive to help others, and sheer amusement with the human condition, he was a defender at heart. His work ethic and passion for his craft is a continued source of inspiration to his children, Lauren and Chris, who dutifully answered the family phone with “Markham and Read” growing up, and knew how to accept calls from a federal prison before they knew how to read.
From successfully prosecuting the notorious cult leader and presidential hopeful Lyndon LaRouche to defending the (alleged!) architect of what the prosecutor liked to call the “largest seizure of hashish in the history of the world,” John enjoyed every minute of practicing the law. Out of a deep commitment to his clients and to the pursuit of justice itself, he practiced up until the final days of his life.
John is survived by his wife, Liz, his children, and so many family members near and far who loved him dearly, and whom he loved in return. His favorite place to be was on the water in Maine with his family, a place he began coming to as a little boy. It is fitting that this is the place he said goodbye. John's final day on his beloved porch was spent staring into the fog, declaring it a beautiful day, while listening to the Rolling Stones (Sticky Fingers). Our final family movie night was a screening of his favorite: "My Cousin Vinny." It took a lot of courage and endurance to live in a body that kept shutting down. What a tireless human being, an exhilarating life. It feels like he lived ten or twelve of them.
The family will hold a celebration of John’s life at its annual Party on the Porch in Friendship. Plans for an opportunity to gather with friends are in the works.
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November 8, 2024
This man changed my life at a time when I had no one my world was full of darkness and he gave me hope.... That's the short version he believed in me on the whole world walked out on me. The most devastating time in my life. Continue to help me with different things through life and some of me get great healing. His words of wisdom advice and support for like no other. Though he did get irritated with me I deserved it.
Sad to hear about this news.
My condolences go out to his family and his children. They don't make them anymore like John Markham! I actually was just looking him up for somebody else and I saw the news. I had had cancer this last year.
~Lisa eternally grateful
Sad to hear about this news.
My condolences go out to his family and his children. They don't make them anymore like John Markham! I actually was just looking him up for somebody else and I saw the news. I had had cancer this last year.
~Lisa eternally grateful
August 29, 2024
I just learned of John's death yesterday. Even though I know he has struggled with various health issues over many years, it was still a shock. John was one of my closest friends at Princeton HS. He was the prankster and I would write fake letters to the principle defending his absence from school.
Over many years, we circled in and out of each other's lives. We spent an entire evening of a HS reunion sitting in chairs talking about life. He invited me to Maine for his wonderful 60th birthday party and I discovered why he loved Maine so much.
When I moved to Paris, he kept threatening to come over for a visit but he never did--and now he never will.
I loved the obituary that I just read. It is so full of John's spirit and life. I will miss him.
To the entire Markham/Read clan, I am so sorry for this huge loss. I send you love and bon courage.
Sally Somers, Paris, France
Over many years, we circled in and out of each other's lives. We spent an entire evening of a HS reunion sitting in chairs talking about life. He invited me to Maine for his wonderful 60th birthday party and I discovered why he loved Maine so much.
When I moved to Paris, he kept threatening to come over for a visit but he never did--and now he never will.
I loved the obituary that I just read. It is so full of John's spirit and life. I will miss him.
To the entire Markham/Read clan, I am so sorry for this huge loss. I send you love and bon courage.
Sally Somers, Paris, France
July 26, 2024
I've been lucky to know John in many ways, as the fly-in uncle who was jet setting and helped me to realize that there was a lot of different ways to be an attorney and his way meant flying a lot.
He also gave me an amazing opportunity to dig deeper into his work when I worked in his office late in college. His approval and encouragement were manna, and his disapproval was... well... it was motivating as well! Sitting in on arbitrations with John and Bridget at 22 was a thrill I'll never forget, nor will I forget how hard he fought for one client who was very simply being exploited by some truly awful people. He found those nuggets of injustice and converted them into zealous advocacy. It was amazing to see.
I'll always appreciate the trust he placed in me, his generosity, his laughter and stories, and sushi dinners at New Ginza in Watertown. I'll miss you, John.
He also gave me an amazing opportunity to dig deeper into his work when I worked in his office late in college. His approval and encouragement were manna, and his disapproval was... well... it was motivating as well! Sitting in on arbitrations with John and Bridget at 22 was a thrill I'll never forget, nor will I forget how hard he fought for one client who was very simply being exploited by some truly awful people. He found those nuggets of injustice and converted them into zealous advocacy. It was amazing to see.
I'll always appreciate the trust he placed in me, his generosity, his laughter and stories, and sushi dinners at New Ginza in Watertown. I'll miss you, John.
July 25, 2024
Sad to hear the news that John has passed. For thirty years I have seen him as a work/neighbor and professional colleague. When we would discuss cases he always had great insights -- but also a funny story to go with it. He loved life, he loved being a lawyer, but most of all he loved his family. Every encounter would include an update on Liz, Chris, and Lauren, and more recently, his stories about the grand children. It was such a pleasure to know John with his indominable spirit. J. J. Barter
July 23, 2024
I am saddened to know that John has passed. A man whose presence was so strong in this life is a man whose absense is difficult to imagine. I remember him being almost giddy for life, relishing his engagement with people, work, pleasure. My mind jumps to images of him shouting happily, perhaps maniacally at soccer matches (or was that my own dad beside him?), with earnest concentration and utmost belief in our little gang of players. I recall the sparkle in his eye as he showed off the enormous photo of the drug smuggling boat, which he displayed prominently at the entrance of his and Liz’ law offices ( I have to assume this was John’s choice of decor rather than Liz’). I remember that though we knew his health was at times quite precarious, he never seemed to show outward doubt about his will to live and thrive - a testament to his character and an example that I have pondered more than once. But most personally to me, I will never forget the call I placed to him in my early 20s when my mom was in crisis, and I didn’t know who else to ask, and how he agreed to step up and help her, regardless of the details. I knew him to be a man whose philosophical conviction revolved around the idea of helping others, and while one could engage him easily on the theoretical topic of an individual’s right to defense, it was through John’s actions that he showed his belief. I am grateful to have known John, and my heart is full of warmth for his family at this time.
July 23, 2024
After graduation from Skidmore in ‘08, about ~14 of us embarked on a roadtrip to Maine - the first stop, the Markhams. It was my first trip to Maine, and seeing the world that the Markhams had created on the island and at the mainland house was eye opening. It more than validated everything I had heard from Chris about John, and about his family. A place of history, of cherished family memories, of hosting guests and generosity, and just a celebration of life and experiencing it to the fullest - in the most beautiful place and with people you love.
It’s how I will always view the Markhams and it all seemed to emanate from John’s spirit. In the ~16 years since graduation and that first voyage to the Maine house, there is good argument that our wider group of friends would in fact not have so many of the dearest and fondest of memories that I know we all cherish, without those special trips and memories in Maine and the Markhams’ generosity. Truly, I’m not sure you could find / replace a more special gathering place for us all throughout the years. And John was usually there to welcome us, bring a boat, suggest a fun adventure for the day, host a meal, etc. and if not with us physically, always there in spirit. I’m beyond grateful for it. He enriched all of our lives and the memories will be held forever. Thank you so much John, we’ll miss you.
It’s how I will always view the Markhams and it all seemed to emanate from John’s spirit. In the ~16 years since graduation and that first voyage to the Maine house, there is good argument that our wider group of friends would in fact not have so many of the dearest and fondest of memories that I know we all cherish, without those special trips and memories in Maine and the Markhams’ generosity. Truly, I’m not sure you could find / replace a more special gathering place for us all throughout the years. And John was usually there to welcome us, bring a boat, suggest a fun adventure for the day, host a meal, etc. and if not with us physically, always there in spirit. I’m beyond grateful for it. He enriched all of our lives and the memories will be held forever. Thank you so much John, we’ll miss you.
July 23, 2024
I have had such a hard time finding the words to explain what an impact John had on me. He was so many things to me throughout different phases of my life; a second father, an advisor, a mentor, an advocate, a leader, and a friend. Even though I gave him no reason to, he always wanted to defend me, see the good in me, be in my corner. He saw potential in me even when I did not. He gave me opportunities to show myself and others the potential he saw in me.
Even as I reflect back on my favorite memories of him, I have forgotten how many there are. His famous salmon dinners, warm welcomes to the freeloaders such as myself emerging from his garage mornings after what I can only imagine were very long loud nights (forever sorry Liz), coffee and bagel deliveries to said freeloaders, boat rides and wine on the porch in Maine, seeing him in his absolute element in the court room, sitting with him in his office feet perched on desk as always as he leaned back in his chair and shared his endless wisdom, I could go on for forever. And when I think back to some of the hardest times in my life, John was also there. Without hesitation and without judgement. Not only for me, but for my family. Unequivocally loyal and selfless. He was one of my favorite people to laugh with, listen to, and potentially the only person whose advice I always took (and sought), no questions asked.
If it's not yet obvious who is writing this,
that's because who would ever expect these kind of words to be spoken about your best friend's father? John wasn't just another parent, he was someone we all looked up to, admired, and wanted to make proud. He was the life of the party, he was the adult you could relate to, felt safe with, and respected. Disappointing John was worse than disappointing our own parents.
Chris, Liz, and Lauren - love you all and thank you for sharing John with me, he will live on in my heart as the legend I always saw him as.
Xx Amanda
Even as I reflect back on my favorite memories of him, I have forgotten how many there are. His famous salmon dinners, warm welcomes to the freeloaders such as myself emerging from his garage mornings after what I can only imagine were very long loud nights (forever sorry Liz), coffee and bagel deliveries to said freeloaders, boat rides and wine on the porch in Maine, seeing him in his absolute element in the court room, sitting with him in his office feet perched on desk as always as he leaned back in his chair and shared his endless wisdom, I could go on for forever. And when I think back to some of the hardest times in my life, John was also there. Without hesitation and without judgement. Not only for me, but for my family. Unequivocally loyal and selfless. He was one of my favorite people to laugh with, listen to, and potentially the only person whose advice I always took (and sought), no questions asked.
If it's not yet obvious who is writing this,
that's because who would ever expect these kind of words to be spoken about your best friend's father? John wasn't just another parent, he was someone we all looked up to, admired, and wanted to make proud. He was the life of the party, he was the adult you could relate to, felt safe with, and respected. Disappointing John was worse than disappointing our own parents.
Chris, Liz, and Lauren - love you all and thank you for sharing John with me, he will live on in my heart as the legend I always saw him as.
Xx Amanda
July 22, 2024
I feel so lucky to be one of the many beneficiaries of John's warmth and generosity. I arrived at his beautiful home in Friendship at all hours of the night, and all stages of life: as a young college graduate eager to experience the beauty of Bremen Long Island I'd heard so much about; years later, exhausted as I hauled a handful of tiny, loud children into his home for an overnight before heading to the island. Each time, he graciously welcomed us into his home and life. He was always full of questions, eager to join me in making fun of my older brother, Robbie (he loved to laugh about Robbie!), share stories about the place or the house or... really... anything!... and happy to provide food, boats or assistance as we embarked on our adventures across the water. I'm so grateful to him for giving me and my children the gift of time in such a magical place. I'm also grateful to him for raising Lauren and giving us all such a smart, fun and generous friend. I love her, and love you all. John's memory will live on forever in my heart and deep in my soul. Much love to you all. -Emily
P.S. Photo of my daughter Minna and Clio on Bremen Long Island summer 2023
P.S. Photo of my daughter Minna and Clio on Bremen Long Island summer 2023
July 20, 2024
From the early days in Concord and beyond, John’s no BS attitude, warm hospitality and exuberance for life were a joy to be around. I fondly remember the soundtrack of my youth soccer escapades with Chris were John and my father passionately bellowing in unison from the sidelines come rain or shine. Of course the referee almost always had it wrong.
I know how much he means to all of the lads and he will be sorely missed. Sending all my love to the family during this difficult time x
I know how much he means to all of the lads and he will be sorely missed. Sending all my love to the family during this difficult time x
July 19, 2024
I was captivated by the immensity of John Markham from the first meeting. To begin with, he was treating a gang of us to dinner out at a restaurant, which was huge treat after god knows how many nights of dining hall dinners. Secondly, he was Lauren's dad and Lauren was incredibly cool. He could have been the most normal, predictable of parents and I still would have appreciated him for those two reasons, but he was so so so much bigger.. his energy was infectious, his love of life palpable and his stories mesmerising. I left dinner confident that if I ever got into REAL trouble, John would get me out of it... and there were few things I was more terrified of at that time in my life than getting into trouble, (which seemed to happen a decent amount). He wanted to know where all of us came from... being from New Jersey, I was from then on "my favorite Jersey girl." I'm pretty sure he's the only person who could call me a Jersey girl and get away with it! The Markhams became an extended family during those formative first years of living away from home. The warmth, generosity and sense of fun that defined time in their company was a spirit-saving foil to the more difficult aspects of leaving home at 13. I am so grateful that John loomed large during those years. Sending so much love to you guys. xxxx Kate
July 18, 2024
My condolences to the entire Markham-Read family on the loss of John. I always enjoyed seeing John at family gatherings and listening to the stories he would share. I will never forget when I was in Maine for Meghan and Chris’s wedding and how kind John was to me. I was nervous to spend the night on the island and he tired to do everything he could to make me comfortable about spending the night on the island. John loved his time in Maine and wanted all of his family and friends to be able to experience the island life.
July 18, 2024
One of my first memories of John, which I think was the first time I met him, was him asking me and a bunch of Lauren’s Middlebury college friends what our thoughts were on the Iraq war. I was all of 19, so I’m sure I had no shortage of ill-informed opinion, but John leaned in and seemed genuinely interested in what we had to say.
I owe John and the whole Markham clan an immense debt of gratitude. It was John, Liz, Lauren, and Chris who opened their home to share the wonders of the ME coast with me. A place that now resonates so deeply with me. My own kids’ summer dreams are made up of the Round Pond general store, candle lit lobster dinners, oysters and their taste of the ocean, soft mossy paths, and the myriad of sea treasures found on the rocky coast.
Over the years as I got to know John better, I learned so much of what I love about Lauren flowed from him: a great storyteller, generous, curious, smart, a lover of people, and good times.
John, you’ve left an amazing legacy behind in both your children, who day-to-day make the world more just, informed, and joyful.
Thank you John, for your warmth, your generosity, and your stories.
I owe John and the whole Markham clan an immense debt of gratitude. It was John, Liz, Lauren, and Chris who opened their home to share the wonders of the ME coast with me. A place that now resonates so deeply with me. My own kids’ summer dreams are made up of the Round Pond general store, candle lit lobster dinners, oysters and their taste of the ocean, soft mossy paths, and the myriad of sea treasures found on the rocky coast.
Over the years as I got to know John better, I learned so much of what I love about Lauren flowed from him: a great storyteller, generous, curious, smart, a lover of people, and good times.
John, you’ve left an amazing legacy behind in both your children, who day-to-day make the world more just, informed, and joyful.
Thank you John, for your warmth, your generosity, and your stories.
July 18, 2024
John was a truly incredible human, and the handful of times our paths crossed I was always overcome with warmth, familiarity, humor, and, of course, his and my partner David's unflappable adoration of The New York Jets.
I'll never forget a particularly warm summer trip to Maine with a bunch of overly sunned post-grads. John was there to hydrate and nourish us, which included joining us in sipping a very classy and collegiate beverage: Jagermeister, which he pronounced with a "J". To this day, I cannot see a bottle of that stuff without hearing his voice, he was so down to get on our level while also mildly questioning our choices ;)
Like my late father, he had that undeniable "everyone's dad" persona. You immediately felt at ease with him, his inviting smile, and knew that he would take care of you and have your back at a moment's notice. A quality he passes on to his daughter Lauren, who also carries on that supportive, inviting smile. An absolute legend, he will be warmly remembered.
Love to all of you as you process through the road ahead. Your village is here for you.
I'll never forget a particularly warm summer trip to Maine with a bunch of overly sunned post-grads. John was there to hydrate and nourish us, which included joining us in sipping a very classy and collegiate beverage: Jagermeister, which he pronounced with a "J". To this day, I cannot see a bottle of that stuff without hearing his voice, he was so down to get on our level while also mildly questioning our choices ;)
Like my late father, he had that undeniable "everyone's dad" persona. You immediately felt at ease with him, his inviting smile, and knew that he would take care of you and have your back at a moment's notice. A quality he passes on to his daughter Lauren, who also carries on that supportive, inviting smile. An absolute legend, he will be warmly remembered.
Love to all of you as you process through the road ahead. Your village is here for you.
July 18, 2024
I heard tales of John Markham when I was in high school long before I met him. No "grownup" other than John Markham could be the subject of teenagers’ chatter, and when I finally met him, at an Italian restaurant in NYC, he more than lived up to the hype.
Many years later, John became a counselor/therapist/lawyer/guru to me as I tried to guide my mom through a sticky situation involving a fraudster/thief/alleged murderer. John had the uncanny ability to empower me while giving me advice that I desperately needed. I looked forward to my regular chats with John during this time - even though he is the busiest person in the world (besides his daughter Lauren), he made time to help me. I’d tell him about the latest dirt that had been uncovered about the fraudster and he helped me strategize as to how to best present this information to my mother. But our chats also included idle gossip, discussions of where one could get the best Chinese food in NYC, and also musings about how impressive Lauren is. He surely loved life, but his top love was his family. He will be greatly missed by everyone who has ever met him.
Many years later, John became a counselor/therapist/lawyer/guru to me as I tried to guide my mom through a sticky situation involving a fraudster/thief/alleged murderer. John had the uncanny ability to empower me while giving me advice that I desperately needed. I looked forward to my regular chats with John during this time - even though he is the busiest person in the world (besides his daughter Lauren), he made time to help me. I’d tell him about the latest dirt that had been uncovered about the fraudster and he helped me strategize as to how to best present this information to my mother. But our chats also included idle gossip, discussions of where one could get the best Chinese food in NYC, and also musings about how impressive Lauren is. He surely loved life, but his top love was his family. He will be greatly missed by everyone who has ever met him.
July 18, 2024
What a beautiful obituary. John always made Emma and I feel welcome in Maine and Boston. He clearly had a huge and immensely positive influence on his children. I’m sure his grandchildren will also continue to feel his presence.
July 18, 2024
Susan and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our friend, John Markham. I always admired John’s dedication to his profession and greatly enjoyed our conversations. He was a dedicated and loving father who also looked out for our son Christopher as well. He will be missed.
July 17, 2024
What a guy! I fondly remember chatting about politics and current events with John in the Markham kitchen. I loved hearing John’s war stories from his epic legal career, and all of us future lawyers looked up to John and appreciated how involved he was in our lives. I’ll never forget how he served as our prom after party’s in-house counsel, and nobody went to jail that night! He will be missed. May his memory be a blessing.
July 16, 2024
John was so much more than “my best friend’s dad”. He was a mentor, hero and a legend to me, and to all of Chris’ friends. When most parents entered the room, we straightened up, watched our Ps and Qs, and looked for a polite exit. When John showed up, we smiled, cheered, hugged him, and glanced at each other in excitement. What wild stories of his youth or his clients would we hear? How much red wine, Jack Daniels, Napoli chicken parms and cookies would he have for us (or if we were on the island, how many clams and lobsters)?
John’s life was rich and his hands full with his beloved family and sprawling array of clients, but his heart had endless capacity and his embrace had infinite reach. To know John was to know loyalty and love.
The modern world provides few spaces where teenage boys are encouraged and trusted to be comfortably themselves, but John (and Liz) welcomed us always; no matter the time or our BAC. As boys, he trusted and empowered us to go out into the world on our own, to look after each other, and make decisions like men. When we made bad ones, which was often, he was there to pull us out of whatever mess, defend us in public, and in private make damn sure we knew how disappointed he was. There was no one whose disappointment cut deeper, because no one without a genetic obligation to do so invested so much time and faith in us.
And yet, John forgave, always. He had total faith that we were more than our most recent mistakes— that eventually we would make him proud. It took a while, but his professional patience for recidivism translated well to his parenting. Those two parts of his life often overlapped. In college, he stood by me at my lowest moment and defended in court my worst behavior. When my brother slipped up before his first military deployment, John dropped everything to drive to New Hampshire and make it right. Later, he hired me as his paralegal, for one week, sending me to Beverly Hills to review 25 boxes of documents, selecting which were key to his case and shipping them back to him. I was a 20 year-old history major; wildly underqualified. Millions of dollars were at stake. Yet John, having known the worst in me, still trusted me. If I focused and used my best judgment, he said, then I couldn’t let him down.
I’ve still not had a better boss and I may never know a better man. As I reflect on what a positive force John was in my upbringing, I feel inspired to more actively try and emulate him as a father. I’m so grateful that he was a part of my childhood and my life. I'm grateful that my wife got to dance with him at Chris and Meghan’s wedding, and that my children got to meet him at his finest: captaining his boat full of kids, grandkids, and friends across the channel to a home-cooked seafood dinner on the island, effortlessly and generously bringing people together for good food, good stories, and the freedom to live our best life, knowing he had our backs.
Thank you, John, and rest easy. It was a helluva ride.
John’s life was rich and his hands full with his beloved family and sprawling array of clients, but his heart had endless capacity and his embrace had infinite reach. To know John was to know loyalty and love.
The modern world provides few spaces where teenage boys are encouraged and trusted to be comfortably themselves, but John (and Liz) welcomed us always; no matter the time or our BAC. As boys, he trusted and empowered us to go out into the world on our own, to look after each other, and make decisions like men. When we made bad ones, which was often, he was there to pull us out of whatever mess, defend us in public, and in private make damn sure we knew how disappointed he was. There was no one whose disappointment cut deeper, because no one without a genetic obligation to do so invested so much time and faith in us.
And yet, John forgave, always. He had total faith that we were more than our most recent mistakes— that eventually we would make him proud. It took a while, but his professional patience for recidivism translated well to his parenting. Those two parts of his life often overlapped. In college, he stood by me at my lowest moment and defended in court my worst behavior. When my brother slipped up before his first military deployment, John dropped everything to drive to New Hampshire and make it right. Later, he hired me as his paralegal, for one week, sending me to Beverly Hills to review 25 boxes of documents, selecting which were key to his case and shipping them back to him. I was a 20 year-old history major; wildly underqualified. Millions of dollars were at stake. Yet John, having known the worst in me, still trusted me. If I focused and used my best judgment, he said, then I couldn’t let him down.
I’ve still not had a better boss and I may never know a better man. As I reflect on what a positive force John was in my upbringing, I feel inspired to more actively try and emulate him as a father. I’m so grateful that he was a part of my childhood and my life. I'm grateful that my wife got to dance with him at Chris and Meghan’s wedding, and that my children got to meet him at his finest: captaining his boat full of kids, grandkids, and friends across the channel to a home-cooked seafood dinner on the island, effortlessly and generously bringing people together for good food, good stories, and the freedom to live our best life, knowing he had our backs.
Thank you, John, and rest easy. It was a helluva ride.
July 16, 2024
Chris, Lauren, Liz and all your family members, I’m so sorry for your loss. John was amazing. He was the most welcoming, fun, gregarious host to so many of us growing up. I absolutely loved running into him at your house. He’d give you the most enthusiastic greeting, he always seemed genuinely interested in talking, and even our briefest conversations were fun. I’m so sad to hear of his passing, but what an incredible life. I’m thinking of you all.
July 16, 2024
My first memory of John is crystal clear and I think it’s a perfect encapsulation of what many others have already written about him.
Freshman year at Skidmore, Chris and John walked into our dorm with a six-pack of beer after a soccer game. The normally strict campus security approached John and Chris, questioning what they were doing with beer in a freshman dorm room. John immediately charmed the security officer. By the end of their interaction, it was like they were old friends and the officer allowed us to drink the beers. John hung around with all of us for a bit and immediately got to know everyone in the room. He was funny, charming, clever, and genuine. He was super cool.
Interactions for me thereafter were always similar. During dinners in Friendship, we quickly bonded over spending our youth in New Jersey and how much we each loved living in coastal Maine. Conversations with John flowed so easily and naturally. The more I hung around him, the more I realized just how equally bright and empathetic he was. John lives on through the work and lives of his incredibly successful children, grandchildren, and family. John will be missed dearly. I’m grateful we crossed paths in this life and I’m looking forward to when we do again in the next.
Freshman year at Skidmore, Chris and John walked into our dorm with a six-pack of beer after a soccer game. The normally strict campus security approached John and Chris, questioning what they were doing with beer in a freshman dorm room. John immediately charmed the security officer. By the end of their interaction, it was like they were old friends and the officer allowed us to drink the beers. John hung around with all of us for a bit and immediately got to know everyone in the room. He was funny, charming, clever, and genuine. He was super cool.
Interactions for me thereafter were always similar. During dinners in Friendship, we quickly bonded over spending our youth in New Jersey and how much we each loved living in coastal Maine. Conversations with John flowed so easily and naturally. The more I hung around him, the more I realized just how equally bright and empathetic he was. John lives on through the work and lives of his incredibly successful children, grandchildren, and family. John will be missed dearly. I’m grateful we crossed paths in this life and I’m looking forward to when we do again in the next.
July 16, 2024
So sad to hear the news about John. Our deepest condolences to Liz, Chris and Lauren and the extended Markham-Read families.
I first met John when our daughter Meghan was dating Chris. John and Liz always made our family feel very welcome and comfortable at any of their family gatherings. I really enjoyed John’s stories about his time as a federal prosecutor in the Boston area.
There is one incident concerning John that sticks out vividly in my memory. My wife, Laurie, and I were attending our first “party on the porch” at their beautiful home in Friendship, Maine. We were invited to stay overnight and the next morning, not seeing John anywhere, asked where he was. I was told he drove down to Boston very early to catch a flight to Missouri because he had donated a New England style lobster dinner at a charity auction and was flying down to prepare it and then flying back the next day. I remember thinking what an amazing, generous thing to do. If I hold a door open for someone I feel as though I should go to heaven.
The few times that we got to talk one on one, he always mentioned Chris and Lauren and how proud he was of their accomplishments.
I shared with John the same taste in music, the oldies, especially Motown. Unfortunately but fortunate for me, I did not share the same passion John had for the New York Jets football team. Peace out!
I first met John when our daughter Meghan was dating Chris. John and Liz always made our family feel very welcome and comfortable at any of their family gatherings. I really enjoyed John’s stories about his time as a federal prosecutor in the Boston area.
There is one incident concerning John that sticks out vividly in my memory. My wife, Laurie, and I were attending our first “party on the porch” at their beautiful home in Friendship, Maine. We were invited to stay overnight and the next morning, not seeing John anywhere, asked where he was. I was told he drove down to Boston very early to catch a flight to Missouri because he had donated a New England style lobster dinner at a charity auction and was flying down to prepare it and then flying back the next day. I remember thinking what an amazing, generous thing to do. If I hold a door open for someone I feel as though I should go to heaven.
The few times that we got to talk one on one, he always mentioned Chris and Lauren and how proud he was of their accomplishments.
I shared with John the same taste in music, the oldies, especially Motown. Unfortunately but fortunate for me, I did not share the same passion John had for the New York Jets football team. Peace out!
July 15, 2024
What a true privilege it was to know John Markham for the past 25 years. A loving and proud father, John took Chris’s friends under his own wing and vigorously defended us against anyone that threatened our ability to learn our own lessons from the occasional mistakes of youth. He was so incredibly generous with his hospitality, his advice, and his uniquely optimistic outlook on life.
John was an extremely talented and zealous advocate who was dedicated to his clients and the law in a manner befitting the best of the legal profession. He was one of the rare people who truly loved his work. I know this first hand because John hired me to work for him at Markham & Read during a summer break from college and in the years since he has continued to be a mentor and role model as I navigated my own career and life.
I am so grateful that my last memory of John was of him holding court on his boat in Maine last September, advising me on cases to pursue at DOJ, instructing Chris on proper boat docking procedure, and engaging my wife Anna in conversation about her native Czech Republic. John will be missed by so many but I am comforted to know his legacy lives on in Lauren, Chris, and his grandchildren.
John was an extremely talented and zealous advocate who was dedicated to his clients and the law in a manner befitting the best of the legal profession. He was one of the rare people who truly loved his work. I know this first hand because John hired me to work for him at Markham & Read during a summer break from college and in the years since he has continued to be a mentor and role model as I navigated my own career and life.
I am so grateful that my last memory of John was of him holding court on his boat in Maine last September, advising me on cases to pursue at DOJ, instructing Chris on proper boat docking procedure, and engaging my wife Anna in conversation about her native Czech Republic. John will be missed by so many but I am comforted to know his legacy lives on in Lauren, Chris, and his grandchildren.
July 15, 2024
It is with such a heavy heart that I have learned of John’s passing.
He came into my life through Chris and my daughter Amanda’s middle school crush and life friendship with both Chris and John. In those years, John was the parent who seemed “to get it” through the challenging times in their youth. As time passed, his relationship evolved into a trusted adult advisor, who believed in her and supported her with valued guidance. Amanda would say “you should call John Markham for advice”
In more recent years when I was challenged by an issue, I did call John.
His wise counsel and generosity of his time provided me with dignity to bring the issue to closure. I wish I could tell John how much I appreciated his guidance through all these years. Those who have had the privilege of knowing him, are better people for it
With great respect for the Markham-Read Family,
Carol Kennedy Hurley
He came into my life through Chris and my daughter Amanda’s middle school crush and life friendship with both Chris and John. In those years, John was the parent who seemed “to get it” through the challenging times in their youth. As time passed, his relationship evolved into a trusted adult advisor, who believed in her and supported her with valued guidance. Amanda would say “you should call John Markham for advice”
In more recent years when I was challenged by an issue, I did call John.
His wise counsel and generosity of his time provided me with dignity to bring the issue to closure. I wish I could tell John how much I appreciated his guidance through all these years. Those who have had the privilege of knowing him, are better people for it
With great respect for the Markham-Read Family,
Carol Kennedy Hurley
July 15, 2024
John was a legend. For so many of Chris’s friends he was a constant, hilarious, relentlessly supportive presence throughout our school years and beyond. From Concord to Utah to Watertown to the North End to Maine, I have so many great memories of John hosting, entertaining, arguing politics and law, occasionally reining us in, and always guiding and nudging us along the path of the good life. And what a great, rich, full life he lived. Always palpably coming through was his boundless love for his family and pride in Chris and Lauren. Their friends were all so lucky to have a little bit of John in our lives. May his memory be a blessing, sending thoughts and love to all of the Markhams and Reads.
July 15, 2024
I consider John Markham to have been was my best friend. We had 60 years of shared experiences, from college through law school ( different but nearby schools) and our first years of practice in New York ( different but similar firms). We pursued different careers but stayed in close touch. In the 1980s, I visited John and LIz in San Diego where he was an assistant US Attorney prosecuting border smugglers, and John with his can-do attitude had arranged a Border Patrol helicopter to show me the border and explain the difficulty of apprehending smugglers. When he prosecuted to a guilty verdict Lyndon LaRouche , he stayed at my DC house during the weeks long trial. He was the first person I called when faced with a difficult challenge or life decision. His advice helped me through difficult times more than once. John was one of the smartest people I have know and by far the cleverest. We called him " the wizard" in college because his approach to seemingly everything was out of the box. He introduced me to the wonders of coastal Maine in the summertime, and occasional travel there to visit him is among my fondest memories. I last visited with John, Liz and Chris in Friendship Maine last August. I'll miss and always fondly remember my best friend and express heart felt condolences to LIz, Chris and Lauren.
Rick Boucher
Abingdon, Virginia
Rick Boucher
Abingdon, Virginia
July 14, 2024
John was generous and kind, but fierce too. He was a fierce soccer dad, and an even fiercer advocate for those he loved, as well as those he represented. John’s curiosity was endless, and his debate skills were legendary. He loved the argument just for the sake of engagement. I wasn’t a worthy opponent very often. Chris, at three, wanted to “negotiate” bedtime. When I said I was the grownup and didn’t have to negotiate, Chris was outraged. When I relayed the story to Liz and John expecting backup, I got John’s defense of Chris, and an exclamation of how proud he was of Chris. He couldn’t have been a prouder or more loving father. Lauren and Chris and Meghan and Ben and Jesse and Mickey and Clio all hit the jackpot when they got John as a father and grandpa. He could talk to anyone, and make you feel as if you were the best part of his day. He loved his sister and brother, and loved talking about adventures growing up. He loved my sister completely, and for that I loved him. (And, he had great taste in music.) I’ll miss him, but I’ll look to the sky and wonder which star he’s sitting on while watching over us.
July 14, 2024
Writing this seems a bit surreal and yet I wanted to share my heartfelt sentiments on the passing of John. John and Liz played a huge role in my life and I will never forget their generosity to me. One of the first times I met John was when he and Liz were dating and they took me to a “fancy” restaurant in San Francisco. The horror of when I asked for ketchup for my steak - one does ask for ketchup for a fine steak I learned that night! It was the beginning of many things I learned from John! Moving forward and living with them as a nanny while I went to college, opened the doors to many opportunities that may not had been offered had I continued living in the small rural area of my youth. Fast forward to today, and zi look at these times fondly. Lauren and Chris had a great role model in John and I expect nothing but fabulous adventures in the years to come with their own children! Cheers to John and the legacy he has left us all! —Lisa
July 14, 2024
John was an indelible part of my adolescence and was one of the first parents of my friends that i felt truly comfortable with socially. He wanted what was best for all of us and he was a joy to be around. I remember him picking us up from an unfortunate night out one time in high school and giving us a much-needed and pitch-perfect lecture about how we weren’t “tough…you’re smart but you’re not tough. when are you going to learn that?!?”. I also always looked to John as someone who truly loved his vocation in a way that was striking and memorable to me. RIP John - you will be dearly missed. Lots of love to the Markhams and Reads x
July 14, 2024
John and Liz entered our lives as parents of our son Boris’ friend Chris Markham. Soon they both became our friends and much more. John was ‘alternative’ in so many wonderful ways and somehow, as far as we could tell, never lost his boyhood sense of fun, adventure and naughtiness despite all of his accomplishments. He was our family’s friend, advisor, lawyer, co-conspirator, and teacher. He was full of devilish humor, boyishness and enthusiasm whenever we met, which of course was never often enough on reflection. John had time for everyone and his consideration, kindness, professionalism and care for our family will forever be appreciated . He was certainly one of a kind - a kind man who will always have a special place in our hearts. Liz, Chris, Lauren and family, thank you for sharing John with so many people. RIP John.
July 14, 2024
There’s another star in the sky now that shines over all of us, because a light like John’s could never be extinguished. As far flung family, when we met it was just like a minute had passed. That was your superpower!, We always depended on Aunt Tina for the Thanksgiving Report on the East Coast Branch! I was still always a bit in awe of “my cool older cousins”.
John you told me something once about life’s expectations and dealing with change. I share it so often because it was so simple yet so profound and I always secretly thanked you for that lesson. ‘
Αιώνια η Μνήμη - Memory Eternal
Meli Zikakis, Kimon, Danae and Alex Florias
John you told me something once about life’s expectations and dealing with change. I share it so often because it was so simple yet so profound and I always secretly thanked you for that lesson. ‘
Αιώνια η Μνήμη - Memory Eternal
Meli Zikakis, Kimon, Danae and Alex Florias
July 14, 2024
So much ink spilled over first (romantic) love, but what about the first family that captures your heart? I fell headlong for Lauren as a Choate freshman, and it was a swift domino fall with the whole Markham-Reed gang. They were brilliant, fun, funny, BUSY. John and Liz claimed to be lawyers, but seemed more like international spies. Who even really knew where they lived?! Boston? San Francisco? Logan International? We had some memorable moments in some beautiful places (skiing in Utah, Maine!) but when I think of John, the first place I go is a blank conference room in CT where he had *somehow* convinced Lauren and I to join him for a deposition during our spring break. How did he lure us? Likely he appealed to our deluded belief that we were 35 years old, and told us we were there for a "job." Maybe he even paid us? Who knows. All I remember, really, is that I had an absolute blast with these two people, father and daughter, who I was just head over heels for. John made everything interesting, everything fun. He loved his life, and he loved his people. That smile! That's another forever image I'll have of John, standing behind the wheel of a boat, just grinning right into the wind. It was all an adventure, and he was there for it. Thanks for the rides along the way, John.
July 14, 2024
As near as I can tell, John was born to be my big brother, because he was so great at it. He guarded me, he loved me, he competed with me, he paved my way in life (and especially into the law); he beat me at tennis 10,000 times; he let me beat him maybe twice; he took me on adventures in his VW Beetle, on our Dad's sailboat and on aquaplanes behind the boat he shared with our sister Betsy; he chopped thousands of stalky alders with me and helped drag the darn things to Dad's brush fires; he gave me cigarettes; and he was the first to come to me - all the way across the country - any time life dealt me a bad hand and also to be the first to meet my beloved Diana.
He was also born to be my best friend. Thank you, John. Thank you.
He was also born to be my best friend. Thank you, John. Thank you.
July 14, 2024
Dear Markham and Read Clan,
My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you all. John played an instrumental role in the lives of Chris's friends. His presence at every high school and club soccer game, the family dinners he welcomed us to, and his stories, guidance, advice, and protection during our formative years made us better people. I feel incredibly fortunate to have known him and to have enjoyed these times with your family.
John's pride in all of you and your successes, along with the impactful work he and Liz have done, have made an impact and carry a legacy in this world that few can claim.
Rest in peace, John. You were one of the most generous people I have ever met and you will truly never be forgotten.
My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you all. John played an instrumental role in the lives of Chris's friends. His presence at every high school and club soccer game, the family dinners he welcomed us to, and his stories, guidance, advice, and protection during our formative years made us better people. I feel incredibly fortunate to have known him and to have enjoyed these times with your family.
John's pride in all of you and your successes, along with the impactful work he and Liz have done, have made an impact and carry a legacy in this world that few can claim.
Rest in peace, John. You were one of the most generous people I have ever met and you will truly never be forgotten.
July 14, 2024
To my beloved Markhams and Reads-
I feel so lucky that you shared John with me! My first memory of John was him lifting the yellow caution tape that demarcated where you were and weren't allowed to drink alcohol at some outdoor festivity at Middlebury, filling a red solo cup from a keg and rejoining his "under-age" cohort (Lauren's freshman friends) across the lawn. I was totally tickled by this- I didn't actually know dads could drink beer from kegs! Even though he was a dad, a middle aged guy, he somehow managed to still seem a little like he was breaking the rules, a little mischievous and heroic, flaunting the rules and really enjoying it.
At the first of many meals I feel extremely grateful to have shared with John over the years, he seemed to take his conversation with us seriously, genuinely wanting to know who Lauren's friends were, and what we had to share with the world. I felt like a real adult having an adult conversation! I didn't know I was an adult! When I told him my dad had more-than-dabbled in the communist party in his youth, he jubilantly declared "oh! you're a red-diaper baby!" I was SO pleased. I'd never heard that expression before, and it felt both so funny, and so perfectly apt. I didn't know I was a red-diaper baby! Such a perfect Markham/Read trait- to have the exact right words to describe anything at just the right moment.
John (and of course Liz and Lauren and Crit) taught me SO many things about the world that i didn't know were possible. I didn't REALLY know, or understand, that everyone- even the "bad" guys- deserves a good lawyer and a good defense until I understood it through John's life and work and passion. I didn't know you could work THAT hard and have THAT much fun. I didn't know you could take that many airplane flights and justify absolutely absurd geographical leaps and bounds because they're all "on the way" somehow to somewhere. I didn't know that buttery, inebriated, lit-only-by-candles, happily never-ending lobster dinners even existed, and now they are my favorite thing in the world- because John shared his precious home, his family, his daughter, his table, his traditions with me. I didn't know that there was a place as perfect and poetic and glorious as the coast of Maine. I didn't know you could have access to that kind of treasure, and share it so freely, so joyously, and so generously. What an incredible soul to have shared Maine with all of us.
Most importantly to me of course, is that I didn't know it was possible to make a daughter like Lauren. Liz and John made the most remarkable specimen of a human being- instilling in her so much vigor, and searing intelligence, and love of life and art and her fellow humans. There is so much John in Lauren, so many of the parts I adore most about her. Thank you, John, for helping me figure out how to make an exquisite daughter- you set the bar really high but the idea of following in your footsteps sounds really fun.
John, you are loved by so many people, and forever. Thank you for all of it.
I feel so lucky that you shared John with me! My first memory of John was him lifting the yellow caution tape that demarcated where you were and weren't allowed to drink alcohol at some outdoor festivity at Middlebury, filling a red solo cup from a keg and rejoining his "under-age" cohort (Lauren's freshman friends) across the lawn. I was totally tickled by this- I didn't actually know dads could drink beer from kegs! Even though he was a dad, a middle aged guy, he somehow managed to still seem a little like he was breaking the rules, a little mischievous and heroic, flaunting the rules and really enjoying it.
At the first of many meals I feel extremely grateful to have shared with John over the years, he seemed to take his conversation with us seriously, genuinely wanting to know who Lauren's friends were, and what we had to share with the world. I felt like a real adult having an adult conversation! I didn't know I was an adult! When I told him my dad had more-than-dabbled in the communist party in his youth, he jubilantly declared "oh! you're a red-diaper baby!" I was SO pleased. I'd never heard that expression before, and it felt both so funny, and so perfectly apt. I didn't know I was a red-diaper baby! Such a perfect Markham/Read trait- to have the exact right words to describe anything at just the right moment.
John (and of course Liz and Lauren and Crit) taught me SO many things about the world that i didn't know were possible. I didn't REALLY know, or understand, that everyone- even the "bad" guys- deserves a good lawyer and a good defense until I understood it through John's life and work and passion. I didn't know you could work THAT hard and have THAT much fun. I didn't know you could take that many airplane flights and justify absolutely absurd geographical leaps and bounds because they're all "on the way" somehow to somewhere. I didn't know that buttery, inebriated, lit-only-by-candles, happily never-ending lobster dinners even existed, and now they are my favorite thing in the world- because John shared his precious home, his family, his daughter, his table, his traditions with me. I didn't know that there was a place as perfect and poetic and glorious as the coast of Maine. I didn't know you could have access to that kind of treasure, and share it so freely, so joyously, and so generously. What an incredible soul to have shared Maine with all of us.
Most importantly to me of course, is that I didn't know it was possible to make a daughter like Lauren. Liz and John made the most remarkable specimen of a human being- instilling in her so much vigor, and searing intelligence, and love of life and art and her fellow humans. There is so much John in Lauren, so many of the parts I adore most about her. Thank you, John, for helping me figure out how to make an exquisite daughter- you set the bar really high but the idea of following in your footsteps sounds really fun.
John, you are loved by so many people, and forever. Thank you for all of it.
July 14, 2024
Mr. Markham left an indelible mark on our group of friends and me personally as we were navigating young adulthood. He was an inspiration as a free spirit, fierce attorney and family man - someone who was always there to help, impart wisdom and advice and spread joy among family and friends. RIP John. May your memory be a blessing.
July 14, 2024
With his generous heart, John was so happy to expand his family and have a bigger audience for his dinner parties and stories. He was the best father-in-law and overjoyed to become a grandfather. He shared his love of boats with his grandson Jesse and reveled in sneaking treats to all his grandkids. His presence will be so missed.
made with 