DANVERS – Mr. John R. Vaters, Jr. passed away surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, February 28th at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. Born in Everett, he was the son of the late John R. and Audrey (Cempe) Vaters. John was the loving husband of Susan (Rappoli) Vaters, with whom he celebrated almost 50 years of marriage. Together they resided in Danvers for over 37 years.

He was raised and educated in Malden, graduating in 1970 from Malden High School. John was an Iron worker and officer for Local 7 in Boston and worked as a Foreman for Ryan Ironworks for many years before his retirement. John was a true family man. He enjoyed raising his family and going on adventures with his granddaughters, making numerous memories along the way. He owned a timeshare in Aruba where he and his family enjoyed many memorable vacations throughout the years. John was also an avid golfer, and member of the Gannon Golf Club for many years and the Westminster Golf Club, in Florida, where he and his wife spent their winters upon retiring.

In addition to his beloved wife, Susan, John is survived by his daughter Jaclyn Grasso of Danvers, along with granddaughters; Kylie and Mia Grasso, and his siblings; David Vaters, Robert Vaters, Ronald Vaters, Wayne Vaters, Yvonne Harmon, and Tim Vaters. He is preceded in death by his sister, Faith Vaters.

ARRANGEMENTS: A celebration of his life will be held at a later date in the spring, private to his family and close friends. Assisting the family with arrangements is O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple St., (Rte. 62) DANVERS. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.