Geoffrey M. Vann

CHARLTON: Geoffrey "Geoff" Mark Vann, 66, of Charlton, Massachusetts, passed away on April 13, 2025, in the presence of his loving wife, Jennifer, and daughter Kerrie. In the days leading up to his passing, he was surrounded by his family who never left his side.

Geoff was the third of five children born to William and Marjorie (White) Vann in Flint, MI. Geoff grew up in various cities and states before his parents settled in West Covina, CA where he graduated early from Edgewood High School in 1976.  He did so because he had a strong desire to serve his country in the US Navy.  He officially joined the US Navy on April 13, 1976.  While serving he was stationed on the USS Ranger CV-61 based in San Diego, CA.  His role on the carrier was one he was very proud of as he was part of "The Grapes - Purple Shirts" who were responsible for fueling the planes which were being launched.  He formed lifelong friendships with his Navy brothers. He served until honorably discharged in 1980.

Geoff met his future wife Jennifer (Long) while playing steel tip darts in the area leagues. They were together for many years until marrying on August 10, 2013. Building a life of respect, dreams, friendship, and supporting each other in every way. Theirs was a true love affair.

Geoff worked tirelessly in the metals fabrication industry as an Industrial Salesman, retiring in 2019.  He was well known and respected by both his product suppliers and his customers. After retirement, Geoff was discovering his hobby of rock hounding, and lapidary had become a passion. He was enjoying the process of learning about the rocks and stones that could be tumbled and then made into truly beautiful pieces of jewelry.

Geoff loved fishing. Many boys' fishing trips were spent at the Cape Cod Canal and camping at Shawme Crowell State Forest. His most cherished time was spent with family and friends.  Being a proud Dad to Andrea and Kerrie, and Gramps to Bekett and Mia were the true joys of his life.  His nephew, Marc, held a special place in Geoff's heart.  Those who knew Geoff will remember his spirit of life, humor and easy-going nature.

Remaining to cherish Geoff's memory are his wife, Jennifer Vann; children, Andrea Vann and her partner Josh Bak; Kerrie Collette and her husband Andrew; grandchildren, Bekett and Mia Collette; sister Kathy Lewis and her husband Mark; brothers William Vann and James Vann; niece, Jennifer Cincotta and nephews, Marc Geiger, and Jamie Vann; great nieces, Kayleigh and Kendall Geiger; Mother in Law, Joan Hilliard; and Brother in Law, Kenneth Hilliard.

Preceding Geoff in death are parents, Sweet Old Bill and Peggy Vann; nephew, William "Billy" Vann III; Father in Law, Raymond Hilliard; and his unexpected 4-legged best friend Gatsby the cat.

A Funeral Service will be held at 3:00PM on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam, MA (1390 Main St).  A Celebration of Life repast will follow immediately after at Storrowtown Tavern in West Springfield, MA (1305 Memorial Ave, Gate 1 of the Eastern States compound).In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Sweats for Vets either financially through www.sweats4vets.com or bring a New England Sports team sweatshirt to the Celebration of Life repast.

MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 1131 Main St., Leicester, is assisting the family with arrangements.