John Spaulding Boardman

On March 2, 2025, just two days shy of his 68th birthday, we said goodbye to our beloved John Spaulding Boardman. Born in Saint Albans on March 4, 1957, John was a man who lived life on his terms-quietly, yet profoundly, touching everyone he met. Though John was a man of few words, his actions spoke volumes, whether it was the admiration in his grandchildren's eyes, or the meaningful camaraderie of his golfing buddies during their cherished breakfast rituals before their morning tee times.
John's life was a tapestry woven with service and passion. Thirty-two years in the US Army National Guard sculpted him into a resilient and caring individual, traits further evidenced by his lifetime dedication to the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. Yet, perhaps his greatest joy in recent years came from the newfound brotherhood he found with the Combat Vets Motorcycle Group. Wind on his face and the open road ahead, he found freedom on his Harley and purpose in his volunteer work, especially with the Warrior Soar where he spent countless hours fundraising and embodying selflessness.
He leaves behind his devoted wife, Deborah Boardman, and their blended family: sons Thomas and his wife Nikki Connolly, Trevor and his fiancé Bailey Buckley, and Tanner Connolly and his fiancé Hannah Mason and his 9 grandbabies, Maddi, Elaina, Leo, Harlow, Bristol, Charlee, Paisley, Sailor, and Lennox. His brother, Peter Boardman and wife Debbie Boardman and his three nieces Heather Cota, Sara Boardman and Tanya Boardman, also mourn his passing. Extended Family and Friends and fellow vets were touched by his warm smile and generous spirit. Predeceased by his parents, Alice Hardy Boardman and Robert Boardman, and grandson Luke Connolly. John's legacy is a testament to the love and compassion they instilled in him.
A gathering to honor John's life will be on Monday, March 10, 2025, at the Heald Funeral Home, located at 87 S. Main Street, Saint Albans, VT. An Honor Guard ceremony will begin at 16:00 followed by calling hours until 19:00. We invite you to join us in celebrating a life well-lived through laughter, love, and the lasting impact of a man who truly put others before himself. As we remember John, let us cherish the road trips, the hearty breakfasts before a round of golf, and most importantly, the heart of gold that was John Spaulding Boardman.
Contributions in his honor to the Combat Vets Chapter 26-2 at 59 Buck Hollow Rd, Fairfax VT 05454 and Warrior Soar at 495 Falls Rd Box 1038 Shelburne VT, 05482.
Assisting John's family is the Heald Funeral Home, where messages of condolence are welcome at www.healdfuneralhome.com.