John Edward Eliason, 61

Warwick, R.I.

John passed away peacefully on March 20 at his son Eric’s home. He was born in Providence, R.I., to Geraldine and John. In his early years, John was a classically trained trombonist who played with the Young Rhode Islanders. He later formed the band, Edgewood, with his friends. The band played at many popular R.I. venues. If you were on the Bay in the last half century, chances are you would have seen John. Before he was old enough to drive and had no engine on his skiff, he rowed out of Warwick Cove to the Bay with his brother, Brian, to bull rake. After filling the boat with quahogs, he rowed back and put the day’s haul in his mom’s car. His career was the Bay. He started the first aquaculture farm there and was an innovator who created techniques specifically for the Bay environment. He was a true naturalist who loved the rhythms of the ecosystem he lived and worked in. John’s knowledge of the species that inhabit the Bay now and in the past was remarkable. He shared this passion with his children, especially with his son, Eric, who worked closely beside him. John will be forever remembered by his family and friends. John is survived by his son, Eric, his mother, Geraldine, his father, John, and his siblings, Brian, Donna, Leslie, and his beloved granddaughter, Ella. John was recently pre-deceased by his daughter, Stephanie.