John Erik Aldeborgh died peacefully at home in Edgartown on Nov. 3. He was 91, although his family is officially giving him credit for reaching 92 as he missed it by only a few days.

Born to Erik and Signe (Johnson) on Nov. 10, 1925 in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., he was married for 61 years to his devoted wife, Janet, who survives him.

He attended Millbrook School for boys in the early ‘40s, then honorably served his country in the Navy during World War II before graduating Williams College in 1949. He ran Standard Gage Company in Poughkeepsie until the late 1970s while living in Hyde Park, N.Y., raising his family. He moved to Herring Creek Farm on Martha’s Vineyard year-round during retirement.

He was an avid private pilot for nearly 50 years, all accident free, and a downhill skier, not accident free — there was one particularly epic failed gelandesprung at Mad River Glen, witnessed by many. He was also an equestrian, tennis player, sports car aficionado, skilled amateur mechanical engineer and inventor, and all-around lover of anything motorized.

He will be missed greatly for his generosity, irreverent sense of humor, and ability to never let the truth interfere with a good story. Those who knew him, loved him. May he forever rest in peace.

In addition to his wife, Janet, he is survived by five eternally grateful children: Mary M. St. John of Norfolk, John E. Aldeborgh Jr. of Boxford, Timothy D. Aldeborgh of Denver, Colo., Erik H. Aldeborgh of Croton-on-Hudson, N.Y., and Tjark J. Aldeborgh of Edgartown, and a posse of 10 loving grandchildren who affectionately called him Grampy, though he preferred Grandad but never got it.

A celebration of his life for family and friends will be held in the coming summer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard.