Arthur "AJ" James Vogel, age 58, died unexpectedly at UMass Memorial on June 12, 2018 from complications arising from a heart attack.

Born in Hartford on January 28, 1960 and raised in Fabyan, AJ studied Engineering at Thames Valley State University before dedicating 23 proud years of service to the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles. Restless in retirement, he rejoined the work force as the town of Killingly's transportation supervisor for seven years. His final years were his happiest, as he passionately pursued his dream of officiating for the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour. He wore many hats, and loved each one.

Throughout his life, AJ also dedicated himself to coaching both football and softball, pushing his players to be their best on and off the field. He was a lifelong Cheesehead, never missing an opportunity to brag about his prized Green Bay Packers.

To all those who loved him, AJ will be most fondly remembered for his contagious smile, corny jokes, genuine warmth, and his ability to turn a stranger into a friend in a matter of seconds. AJ will be greeted at the gates by his father, Arthur Vogel, while he is survived by his devoted mother, Edna Vogel, and his two children Trevor and Stephanie. He will forever be his mother's hero and his children's biggest fan.

A good man, a loyal friend, and a great father will be dearly missed.

Calling hours will he held on Wednesday, June 20 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a Trisagion Service at 6:00 PM at Shaw-Majercik funeral home located at 48 School Street, Webster, MA under the direction of the Graham, Putnam & Mahoney Funeral Parlors.  A celebration of life will be held Thursday, June 21 at 11:00 AM at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church Fellowship Hall located at 37 Lake Parkway, Webster, MA. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for AJ's memory to live eternally through each of you - through beach trips, football games, NASCAR races, and good times shared with loved ones - we ask that you keep AJ alive in your actions.

To share a memory or offer condolences, a guestbook is available at www.gpmfunerals.com