United States Eventing Association

In Memoriam: John Pingree (1933-2021)

John R. Pingree a lifelong resident of Hamilton, Mass. passed away Tuesday evening, January 19, 2021, at the age of 87. He was the husband of Dianne (Tuzik) Pingree. Born in Boston, he was the son of the late Sumner A. and Mary (Weld) Pingree. John grew up on Flying Horse Farm, his parents' farm. He graduated from Brooks School before joining the Air Force, where he served from 1952-1956.

He was a local business owner, selling Hatteras Yachts out of Gloucester and Beverly in the 1960s and 1970s, after which he took over running Flying Horse Farm. He embraced his family and wife's passion for horses and organized and hosted multiple three-day events at Flying Horse Farm, which included Flying Horse Horse Trials, one of the first three-day events in the U.S., and three Young Riders Competitions. John also owned the great Bally Mar who was competed by Jim Stamets and Karen O'Connor through the CCI5* level. John, along with his wife Dianne, were awarded a USEA Governor's Cup in 2019 for their service to the sport.

An avid yachtsman, John was always happiest when at sea. He cruised all around the world with family and friends, first on Meridian and then Great Admiral, crossing the Atlantic four times, always as captain. He enjoyed being a member of The Cruising Club of America. John was a longtime benefactor, trustee, and member of the Head's Leadership Council at Pingree School. He was a member of Christ Church of Hamilton & Wenham, Myopia Hunt Club, and Singing Beach Club. In his younger years, John served as a volunteer fireman for the Town of Hamilton.

In addition to his wife with whom he shared 51 years of marriage, he is survived by his two daughters, Mary P. Fisher and her husband Edward of Vt. and Sioux Pingree of N.H.; four sons, John R. Pingree, Jr. and his wife Elizabeth of Ga., Alexander W. Pingree of Ala., Stephen H. Pingree and his wife Deborah of Maine, and Theodore E. Ober and his wife Kimberly of Hamilton; 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was also predeceased by his two brothers, Sumner Pingree, Jr. and Charles W. Pingree, his daughter-in-law, Cindy Pingree, and granddaughter Aubrey Pingree.

His services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, donations in John's memory may be made to Windrush Farm, www.windrushfarm.org Arrangements by the Campbell Funeral Home, 525 Cabot Street, Beverly, Mass. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com