John M Vance, Jr.

John M. Vance, Jr., of Worcester passed away peacefully at home, Monday, March 13th 2017 with his devoted wife and family gathered around him.   John was born on December 5, 1949, in Munich, Germany, one of four children of military parents  John M. Vance, Sr. and Tefta (Adams) Vance. He grew up in South Worcester and graduated from South High School.  John then joined the U.S. Air Force for a time to serve his country during Vietnam.  After discharge from service, John earned his degree from Monterey College in Monterey California.    In 1977 he married “the Love of his life” Antonetta  Olivieri and began the next 39 years of dedication to one another.   For the past 15 years worked for the Sterile Processing department of The UMass Memorial Healthcare, Memorial Campus.  He also worked for D’Alonzo’s Convenience Center and the Survey and Analysis Company.  Besides his devoted wife Antonetta.;  John is survived  by Antonetta’s brothers and sister, who considered him a brother, not brother in law;  Nicholas Olivieri and his husband Michael Abdella, Margaret Olivieri, John Olivieri Jr. and his wife Sharon.   He also leaves seven nieces and nephews, including Joseph Nader and his girlfriend Jessica Cicero, Jennifer Gould and her husband Michael, Steven Olivieri and Carmella Campbell all of whom he was extremely close to;  other extended family members and friends.    A quiet and simple man, John’s favorite enjoyments were the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox, watching Television and cooking.   John found his most enjoyable times with family at gatherings and special occasions and holidays.  Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Thursday, March 16th from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St.   His funeral service will be held Friday, March 17th at 11:00 am in the funeral home.  Burial with Military honors will follow in St. John Cemetery.   The family request that flowers be omitted.  The Vance family would like to thank the Staff and especially Dr. Jon Trister of Vernon Integrated Medical, Dr. James O'Shea of the St Vincent Hospital Cancer Center and Metrowest  Homecare and Hospice for all the care, compassion and comfort they gave to John during a very difficult time.