John Charles Bristow, 76 of Winter Springs, Florida died Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024, after a 7-year battle with lung cancer and COPD at Select Medical Hospital in Orlando surrounded by loving family members. Easter Sunday was fitting for John as he had a deep religious faith with a kind heart and a good soul. John was born in Elmira, New York on October 17, 1947. He moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida with his family for his father's work. He is preceded in death by his parents Charles and Marion Bristow.

John is survived by his wife of 54 years, Margaret (Peggy O'Brien) Bristow, son Michael Townes of Casselberry, Florida and Michael's wife Ginger and grandchildren Amanda, Brandon, Courtney, and Delaney; son Scott Townes of Valrico, Florida and Scott's wife Janine and grandchildren Sam Handler, his partner Sheley and her daughter Avery, Matthew Handler, Matthew's wife Janet and great granddaughter Riley, Dennis Townes, and Jacob Townes; siblings Jerry Bristow (Laura) Ormond Beach, Florida; James Bristow (Janet) Palm Beach Gardens, Florida; Joanne Vaughn (Brian) Charlotte, North Carolina; Janelle Sowder (Jeff) Cincinnati, Ohio; many cousins, nieces, and nephews; and John's beloved cat, Cally.

He attended St. John Vianney Seminary for high school in Miami and graduated from Chaminade High School, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. He attended University of Dayton and Utica College. He was a Marianist Brother for 5 years. He taught high school religion at Cardinal Gibbins, Baltimore, MD and Norte Dame, Utica, New York. Over the years he worked in the moving business like his father and at Lowes and Home Depot where he enjoyed selling appliances and kitchen design. His favorite vacation place was St. Maarten. John always enjoyed going to the granddaughters' performances and the grandsons' scouting activities. He retired in 2021 due to poor health.

A vigil is planned for May 23, 2023, from 6 PM to 8 PM at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 526 N. Park Ave., Winter Park, FL to share memories and celebrate John's life. A funeral Mass is scheduled for May 24, 2024, at 10 AM in the Church. A reception will follow at the parish hall.

Inurnment will take place at 1:30 PM at Queen of Angels Cemetery, 1901 Queen of Angels Drive, Winter Park, FL (San Padro area). Father Richard Walsh and Deacon Bill O'Brien, John's brother-in-law will officiate. All are welcome to attend and celebrate John's life. Condolences may be sent to 2000 Winter Springs Blvd. Suite #106-275, Oviedo, FL 327765. John always liked it when Peggy wore yellow. If attending, please wear something yellow.

When Michael and Scott were in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, John served as Assistant Cub Scout Leader, Assistant Scout Leader, and Scout Leader. Donations in John's memory can be made to the Eagle Service Projects for either Delaney Townes or Jacob Townes. Checks can be written out to BSA Troop 4692 and sent to 2000 Winter Springs Blvd. Suite #106-275, Oviedo, FL 32765