John Frederick Dugger

John Frederick Dugger

July 27, 1945-April 26, 2025

John F. Dugger, age 79, passed away unexpectedly April 26, 2025 in Tucson AZ. Born in Philadelphia Pennsylvania July 27, 1945, the son of Dr. John H. and Marjorie R. Dugger. 

After spending 4 years in the Air Force as a Medical Technologist John moved to Tucson AZ where he graduated with a Masters Degree from the University of Arizona. He taught at Emily Grey Middle School and then at Green Fields School. Teaching was his calling and he was well loved by students and colleagues alike. After teaching he worked for the State of Arizona as a Disability Examiner. He retired in 2003.

John had many interests and was an avid reader. He especially liked biographies and non-fiction. He was a lifelong amateur Astronomer. His telescopes were his prize possession. Model railroading was his second love. He built a large collection of train cars, many of which were Pennsylvania Railroad. Every year he looked forward to the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show where he would look for meteorites.  His collection of meteorites is very extensive. He spent many hours cataloging his purchases. He also loved flying kites and bird watching.

Survivors include his wife of 28 years, Phyllis; his son Christopher, daughter-in-law Kelly and grandsons, Calvin and Chase; his son Michael; his son Matthew, daughter-in-law Jenna and grandchildren, Sheppard, Bennie and Jovie; his step-daughter Colleen, step-son Douglas and step-grandson Nicholas. He is predeceased by his sisters Lindy in 1958 and Phyllis Buchanan in 2019 and his brother, Richard (“Dick”) who passed away in March 2025. 

 A Celebration of Life will be held on May 9, 2025 at El Molinito Restaurant VIP Room, 2323 N Pantano Rd, Tucson AZ 85715, at 12:30PM. John will be laid to rest at All Faiths Cemeteries, 2151 S Avenida Los Reyes, Tucson AZ 85748 at an undetermined later date. In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions be made in his memory to Lowell Observatory, 1400 W Mars Hill Rd, Flagstaff AZ 86001. [email protected]

The family extends special thanks to the Tucson Fire and Police Dept and family friends and loved ones who have given their love and care in this difficult time.