Evan F. Tarr

Evan F. Tarr of University Place, Washington, formerly of Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts passed away on February 1, 2024. He was 69 years old. Evan was a devoted husband to Donna McGaffigan Tarr of 42 years and father to Elizabeth A. Tarr, Kathryn T. Bickford (James) and predeceased daughter Margaret N. Tarr. He was a proud “Grumpy” to Hayes, Evan, and James Margaret “Meggy” Bickford. He loved being a grandfather and took his role as Grumpy quite seriously. 

Evan was born February 23,1954 in Lynn, Massachusetts to Edward and Elizabeth Tarr and was the youngest brother of Eileen, Edward, and Eric Tarr. Evan was raised in Arlington and summered in Rockport, MA. He graduated from North Cambridge Catholic High School, and Wentworth Institute of Technology with a BS in Computer Science. He served in the United States Coast Guard with an honorable discharge. Evan had a 35 year career at Axcelis Technologies in Beverly, MA where he served as Chief Automation Engineer before his retirement in June 2022. 

Evan was an avid sailor with his brother, Ted, on their 30 foot Pearson Flyer aptly named, TARR-IFIC. Summers were spent at the family beach cottages in Rockport and Scituate. Evan loved Long Beach, sailing, and Fried Clams. He will be remembered for his stubbornness, integrity and the love he had for his family. 

Evan is survived by his wife, two daughters, and grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Edward (Ted) F. Tarr, (Darlene), Eric (Ricky) F. Tarr, (Sandra), and brother in law John (Jack) F. McGaffigan, (Patricia), as well as nieces and nephews. 

A celebration of life will be held at a later date during the month of August, 2024. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Wellspring House, 302 Essex Avenue, Gloucester, MA 01930.