MONTPELIER – John M. Geake-Veaker, 54, of Montpelier, passed away peacefully after a long courageous battle with lifelong illness. Born on March 10, 1971, to Ronald and Denyse (Dessureau) Geake, John grew up in Barre and graduated from Spaulding High School in 1989.
John had a brilliant and inquisitive mind. He earned an associate’s degree in liberal studies from Community College of Vermont in 1991 and an associate’s degree in biotechnology from Vermont Technical College in 1998. Throughout his career, he held positions at Stryker Biotech, Gifford Elder Care, and Granite Bank. An avid hiker and nature lover, John completed the Long Trail in 1999 and later the Appalachian Trail, making lifelong friends along the way. He had a big heart, was deeply generous, and would give his last dollar to anyone in need. Despite lifelong struggles with illness, John remained devoted to helping others through their own challenges, always offering an open heart and a listening ear. John cherished time with his late mother, Denyse, and often spoke fondly of their moments together. Family was very important to John. We take comfort knowing she and his brother Dennis are welcoming him home.
He is survived by his father, Ronald Geake of Berlin, sisters Susan (John) Clark of Rutland, Paula (Denis) Lefebvre of Barre, and Robyn (Jon) Truman of Delaware; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will miss his warmth, humor, and kind soul.
The family extends special thanks to the care teams at Washington County Mental Health, especially Travis, for their support and compassion. In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s memory may be made to a mental health organization of your choice. John was deeply loved, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A graveside service for John will be held on May 20, 2025, at 11:00 am, at St. Sylvester Cemetery in Lower Websterville.
Arrangements are in the care of Pruneau-Polli Funeral Home, 58 Summer St. in Barre.
Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at
www.pruneaupollifuneralhome.com