ABOUT TOWN: Stoughton Loses a Pearl of a Man

STOUGHTON LOSES A PEARL OF A MAN: If your child played soccer, you probably knew John Pearl. What I didn't know was his actual given name was Leland J. Pearl III. He died in his Stoughton home on Oct. 12, at the age of 53, surrounded by his family.

John was beloved in Stoughton. His dedication to the youth of this town was known to anyone who ever played soccer.

John coached my daughter when she was a pee wee, and his daughter, Jen ,helped out as as "assistant." At that age, the kids just chased the ball, with some getting in a kick that landed on the ball, and not another kid.

John always had a broad smile on his face, and spoke only positive words to all the children.

He was a success in the business world, as well. At the time of his death, he was the vice president of Stoneham Bank. He was a graduate of Nichols College.

John leaves behind his wife Jane (Burke). John was a devoted father to Amanda, Jennifer (Jen), and Allison Pearl, all of Stoughton.

He also leaves behind his mom, Barbara Pearl of Natick.

He was the brother of Leighann Stanton of Wellesley; Donna Pearl and her husband Lawrence White of California; his twin sister Mary Pearl of Natick; Kathleen and her husband Keith Annese of Framingham; Cindy and her husband Wayne Jackman of Mansfield; Deborah and her husband Robert Lima of Methuen; and William Pearl of Boston.

He was also a brother-in-law to Patricia Burke of Hull. He leaves many loving nieces and nephews, as well.

John touched so many people in Stoughton, that his smile will live on in their hearts and memories.

Donations in John's memory may be made to the Make A Wish Foundation at www.wish.org.

May John Rest in Peace.

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