John Robert Vasseur II

The world lost an amazing Husband, Father, Brother, Uncle and Friend on June 8, 2025 when John Vasseur passed after his battle with cancer, surrounded by close family and friends.

John was born in Indiana, where his uncle Doug Evans (Cheryl) and cousins (Ryan, Ashley, and Morgan) still reside. In 1983, his family moved to Salem, OR, where he and his sister, Annette Boyajian (son Evan), made their mark early while attending Waldo MS. There, John's legendary personality gained him many friends. He met his best friend, Ryan White (Erica, sons Kolby and Caleb, and daughter Mackenzie "Mac"), and countless other lifelong friends, together they carved a path fueled by skateboards, laughter, and loyalty.

He relocated to Bend in the late 90s, drawn by work and the lure of snow-packed slopes. It wasn't long before he connected with Chris Clute (Crystal, children Ellie and Lulu), another testament to his ability to find good company wherever he went.

John embraced fatherhood in 2002 with the birth of his son, Malakai "Kai". After moving to Keizer, fate intervened in 2004 when he met the love of his life, Nilima. They tied the knot in Hawaii in 2006, settling in Keizer where their family was completed with the arrival of son Aris in 2007. Their home quickly became a hub for friends and family, filled with laughter and the aroma of John's latest culinary adventure.

John's lifelong passion for cars began early, culminating in 2014 when he acquired his beloved 1965 Buick LeSabre, affectionately known as "Bertha". As a proud member of the Deviants car club, John found more than just fellow enthusiasts; he found a second family with whom he shared countless good times at car shows and gatherings.

His love of cooking developed later in life, benefiting everyone lucky enough to pull up a chair at his table or get their hands on a jar of his salsa or candied jalapenos. John's kitchen creations were legendary, a true expression of his generous spirit. But perhaps nothing brought him more joy than cheering on his sons in their various sports. It was through youth sports that he forged another deep friendship with Marty Vaughn (Sara, sons Harrison, Porter, and Dane), adding more wonderful people to his ever-growing eclectic circle.

John's initial diagnosis of cancer in October 2019, remission and then new onset in October 2024 were devastating, however as is often the case it brought its blessing. The Vasseur family circle grew ever tighter, notably the bond John developed with Nilima's brothers Todd Miles (Camille daughter Natalie, sons Ethan, Levi, Julius, Vicente, and Marcos) Doug Miles (Nikki, daughter Kate, sons Jake and Jordan), and Rob Miles (sons Logan and Landon).

John lived his life with adventure, humor, and love. His infectious laugh and hugs will forever be missed by all those he loved. There was nothing more important to him than his beloved wife, Nilima, and boys, Kai (Madi) and Aris. He genuinely loved people, and his presence made every gathering brighter.