John Ignatius Vass

John I. Vass of Franklin, MA passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday June 7th, 2024. He was 88 years old. John was the beloved husband of the late Monique R Vass, with whom he shared 45 cherished years of marriage; and the loving brother of his late siblings: Sisters Mary and Francis; Brothers George, Bernard, James, and Alexander.

He is also survived by his four children: Roger Vass of Delano, MN, Lisa Barry and her husband Paul of Northbridge MA, Michelle Vass of Franklin and Brenda Nolte and her husband Mike of Westwood MA.

John was a loving grandfather called “Pepere” by his eight adoring grandchildren: Theresa Spruzum, Sarah Vass-Farleo, Sean Vass, Ian Murphy, Isabella Murphy, Ashley Nolte, Olivia Nolte, and John Nolte.

John also was the beloved Uncle to his many nieces and nephews.

John was born and raised in Cumberland, RI, the last child born to his parents, Alexander and Catherine. John graduated from Cumberland High School in 1954. He proudly served in the Army and spent time abroad.

After completing his service, he went on to earn his degree from Johnson and Wales. He began his career as a Computer Engineer with the FAA in the tower at Boston Logan Airport. He remained there for 36 years until his retirement. He then went on to do consulting work for Raytheon before he fully retired.

He enjoyed his softball league and playing cards but his passion was golf. He began golf at a young age and was able to do what he loved most until the age of 85. He was a member at Chemawa Golf Club and shared many rounds of golf and fun memories with great friends there. He also enjoyed our Boston sports teams with the Bruins being the top of his list. John and Monique would spend time in New Hampshire every year where he played golf. They both loved to travel and would take road trips and stop in different states throughout their adventures. They loved spending time in New Smyrna Beach, FL during the winter where they made great memories with their best friends.

John lived a life built on the foundation of faith, family and friends. He was a genuinely warm, kind and welcoming man who deeply touched all the people around him. He will forever be remembered in the hearts of all those who knew and loved him.

There will be no Visiting Hours.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday June 14th at 11:00 AM in St. Mary’s Church, 1 Church Square, Franklin.

Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in John’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital., , 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Arrangements are under the care of the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin (www.ginleyfuneralhomes.com)