Jeffrey “Jeff” Vail died at his home in Hopkins May 18. He was 71 years old.

As a teenager his family moved to Ohio where he eventually met his wife of 51-plus years, Karen (Frederick) Vail and where they had their son, John Edwin.

Born March 6, 1951, in Pontiac to James Edwin and Lois Imogene (Dunnegan) Vail, he was a loving husband and father.

Jeff had an insatiable appetite for knowledge, was a fantastic storyteller, weaving together that knowledge and delivering it in the most engaging way. Because of this gift, he made countless life-long friends.

He developed many interests over the years, including hunting, fishing, history, vintage films, road trips and he always enjoyed a good cigar. Jeff had a real passion for boating and aviation which led him to become the captain of his own sailboat and acquiring his aviation pilot’s license.

He was involved with the Boy Scouts of America for more than years, beginning as a scout leader and culminating in national roles and honors by the Gerald Ford Council and the Order of Arrow.

He is survived by his wife Karen of Hopkins, sister Jane (Don) Ageton of Tucson, AZ; brother James (Andrea) Vail of Clay, MI and nieces Haley Ageton, Kelsey Ageton, Julia (Vail) Van Tiem and nephew Andrew Vail, along with numerous cousins and second cousins.

Jeff was preceded in death by his son John and his parents.

A celebration of life will take place at Hopkins Community Church, 2142 128th Ave. Thursday, June 30. Family and friends will be received, beginning at 10 a.m. with a memorial service at 11. A luncheon will be served afterward