Obituary of John William See

Lexington - John William See passed from his earthly life August 31, 2018, after a lengthy and heroic battle with appendiceal cancer. The son of Dorothy Stephens See and the late John Forest See, John was born in Glen Cove, New York. 

John is survived by his wife of 28 years, Sandra Chadwick; mother, Dorothy See; son John Forest See, II; sister, Virginia Wick; and a number of nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his father, John Forest See; brother, Randy See; and sister, Susan Kiefer.

After graduating from Admiral Farragut Academy in Toms River, New Jersey, he had a brief career in captaining yachts, and then John ran boat dealerships and marinas for a time. In the 1990’s, John transitioned into chemical sales, building and repairing computers; and finally, but most impressively, an internet-based chemical supplies business, The Chemistry Store, located in Cayce, SC. He developed this business from a small store, into a globally respected and trusted company.  All of this gave him a broad knowledge base on many subjects, and always an interesting story to share. He was willing to offer assistance to others, and many people benefited from his abilities.

John was widely known for his great love of boating and fishing, especially in the Keys.  John loved to cook, and to try out new recipes and new cooking tools. Many friends and family were frequent recipients of his gourmet cooking, almost always leaving his kitchen with take-home goodies. He especially loved to host huge backyard barbecues for family and friends. John was also known as a great practical joker, with a talent for vocal impersonations. His great sense of humor remained steady even in the most difficult stages of his illness. 

John’s family will greet friends Saturday, September 8, 2018, from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at Thompson Funeral Home, 4720 Augusta Road, Lexington, South Carolina.  Funeral services will follow after the visitation at the funeral home chapel.

Thompson Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Pawmetto Lifeline, 1275 Bower Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29212, or SCOA Cares, 166 Stoneridge Drive, Columbia, SC 29210, or to the charity of one’s choice.