Captain Peter James Vann died on April 1 after suffering a long illness. He was 80.

He worked the ocean all his days and his life was a fish tale on the largest scale. He served in the U.S. Navy after high school, made a name for himself as a swordfish striker, owned his own lobster boats — The Esther and then the Isle of Shoals — before fishing on the Lorrie Ann in his retirement. He had many successes on the sea.  

Peter was born May 7, 1942 in Hartford, Conn. and grew up on Block Island. He lived on Martha’s Vineyard. 

He was a beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He was an exceptional man who willingly shared his love and knowledge with all he knew, from teaching his children to swim, to love horses, to fish and enjoy or at least tolerate football. 

He was larger than life at times, always funny. He was kind and loving, and always took care of his children. They will miss him forever and wish him fair winds and following seas. 

A veteran’s service will be held this summer on the Vineyard. The date and time will be announced at a time in the future.