Jeffrey F. Dion, age 70, passed away peacefully November 25, 2025, surrounded by family, after a long illness. He was born April 14, 1955, to Francis “Frank” E. Dion and Else M. (née Brande) Dion.
Soon after his birth in Portland, Maine, the Dion family moved to Framingham, Mass., where Jeff’s siblings Dennis and Beth were born. A final move brought the family to Burlington, Vt., and then the youngest, Chris, joined the family as they settled into the New North End. After graduating from Burlington High School, Jeff explored multiple career paths — including putting the J in DJ’s Pizza of Malletts Bay — while fathering four sons.
Eventually becoming a longtime millwright union worker, Jeff lived for the time he spent on the road for his trade and on the trail in his free time. A motor sports enthusiast, he spent the warm months riding motorcycles and the snowy months traversing Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom and Québec by snowmobile.
Jeff leaves behind his four sons, Eric Dion of Ferrisburgh, Vt.; Lance Dion (Sharon Rotax) of Boise, Idaho; Todd Dion of Lincoln, Vt.; and Tyler Dion (Kate Lothuko) of Essex, Vt.; his brothers, Dennis Dion (Janet) of Colchester, Vt., and Christopher Dion (Krista) of Bristol, Vt.; his sister, Beth Ann Trombly (Randy) of Lincoln, Vt.; his grandchildren, Carter and Reinette; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Else.
Jeff’s family would like to extend special gratitude to Joe Mattison and Deb Crampton for their support and unwavering friendship for their dad. It meant so much to him, and them.
A celebration of Jeff’s life will be held for his friends and family at the American Legion, Post 91, 8 South St, Colchester, Vt., January 10, 2026, from 12 to 4 p.m. Per Jeff’s wishes, inurnment will be private and at the convenience of the family.
Memorial contributions in Jeff’s memory may be made to Newark E-Z Riders Snowmobile Club. Please visit awrfh.com to share your memories and condolences.
This article appears in The Reading Issue 2025.
I’m so sorry, Tyler. Love and light to you and your family.
Jeff was a wonderful brother -in-law. I enjoyed his wit and friendship over the years. He loved my sister Catherine and for that I am grateful!!
A better friend you could not wish for! Jeff was a truly good man. And so funny! So many laughs! Whenever the chips were down, Jeff was the first to show up with no fanfare or need for recognition. Our deepest affection for his wonderful family. We will miss him so much.
My thoughts and prayers to all Jeff’s family and many friends, I had worked with Jeff quite a bit traveling around,just a good man and I am sad to hear this, he will be missed by many.