John J. Tanner

John J. Tanner, 73, of West Hartford, and Quonochontaug, RI, passed away Thursday, March 1, 2007. He was born March 25, 1933 in Marlboro, MA, the youngest child of Ralph and Gertrude Tanner. He graduated from Boston College in 1956, and went on to begin his career in insurance with Aetna Insurance Company in Boston. John was transferred to Hartford in 1956, and founded the Tanner Insurance Agency in 1961. Within the industry, he was recognized numerous times by Aetna?s ?Great Performance Club.? He was profiled in the May 8, 1967 issue of Newsweek magazine for his expertise in the insurance industry. John was a long time member of the Wampanoag Country Club, and the Hartford Canoe Club. After his family, and business, John enjoyed his hikes in the reservoir with his dog, Skipper, hunting trips to Maryland, Vermont and CT, and fishing trips with family and friends. He loved his home, and his time spent in Quonochontaug. John was an avid skier, spending countless winters on the slopes of Sunapee and Stratton mountains. Nothing made John happier than to share these experiences with his family and friends. John leaves his loving wife, Rene, a daughter Suzanne Tanner of Cranston, RI, and son Jay Tanner of Tuckahoe, NY. He is survived by his sisters Dorothy Murray of Marysville, WA, Rose Mary and husband Peter DeCenzo of Hudson, MA, his brother Charles and wife Evelyn of Marlboro, MA, and was predeceased by his sister Marjorie Coleman, and brother Ralph Tanner. John also leaves many nieces and nephews. John will be missed by his family, who enjoyed his spontaneity, sense of humor, and his warm, caring personality. John?s comfort and well being for his last 5 years were made possible by the loving care of the staff of Sunrise Assisted Living, and Vitas Hospice Care. The family would like to extend a special thanks to all those that cared for him during this time. A mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, March 6, at 11:00 a.m. in the Church of St. Peter Claver, 47 Pleasant St., West Hartford. The burial will be at private at a later date. John?s family request contributions in his memory be made to the Alzheimer's Association Connecticut Chapter 279 New Britain Road, Ste. 5 Kensington, CT 06037, Camp Rising Sun, American Cancer Society, PO Box 1004, Meriden, CT 06450, or a charity of the donor?s choice. Molloy Funeral Home, West Hartford, has care of arrangements.

John J. Tanner

March 25, 1933 - March 1, 2007