Of Salem, MA, formerly of Lynn, MA, He passed away on November 12, 2006 at home surrounded by his family. Beloved husband of Joanne (Anastasi) Higgins. Loving father of Denise & Joseph Wellington; Daniel & Michele; Joan & Brian Coutermarsh; Thomas; Sharon & Paul Foley; Patrick & Paula; Matthew & Sandy. He was the cherished Grandfather of Ethan, Andrew, Ryan, Patrick, Hannah, Nathan, Kaitlyn, Meaghan, Shannon, Donovan, Anya, and Isabella.
Vincent was the son of the late Patrick and Katherine (Slattery) Higgins; brother to the late John; and survived by brother Thomas; sister-in-law Geraldine; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Kenneth and Nina Gagnon. Loving Uncle to Patricia, Nicole, Craig, and the late Michael; and Great Uncle to Jessica and Avory.
Vincent graduated from Lynn Classical High School and attended Boston University. He retired as a purchasing agent from the former G.E. West Lynn plant where he worked for 43 years.
In retirement, Vincent enjoyed 13 years helping others as a van driver for the City of Salem Council on Aging. He proudly worked for many years as a Ward 5 Warden during city elections. Additionally, he treasured his years as a member of the G.E. “Spark Plugs” retirement group.
A Decorated and Distinguished World War II Naval Veteran, Vincent served in the U.S. Navy as Electrician’s Mate 3/C aboard the U.S.S. Thatcher (DD-514) of Destroyer Squadron 23 “Little Beavers” in the South Pacific. He made a daring escape after being trapped when the Thatcher was hit by a Kamikaze attack.
He treasured his shipmates’ friendship and enjoyed attending reunions held by the U.S.S. Thatcher Association, Inc. He was an active member of The Franco-American War Veterans, AMVETS, The US Navy Memorial Foundation, and the Tin Can Sailors.
Vincent’s personal interests included working on projects around the house, out in his garden, and on small engine repairs. Of all the gifts that life blessed him with, his proudest and most meaningful were his wife, children, grandchildren and family.
Arrangements: Levesque Funeral Home 163 Lafayette Street (Route 114/1A), Salem, MA. Visiting Hours Wednesday, November 15th 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Funeral Mass celebrated at St. James Church, 160 Federal Street, Salem, MA, 10:00 AM Thursday, Nov 16th. For guestbook and directions please go to www.levesquefunerals.com
In lieu of Flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in his memory to the Hospice of the North Shore, 10 Elm Street, Danvers, MA 01923.