Geoffrey Arata
Geoffrey was a champion soccer player and a proud graduate of Notre Dame. He was an avid Triumph, guitar, and grilling enthusiast, who enjoyed all manner of sports coverage. But he is most remembered for being a loving father and devoted uncle who ensured the prosperity and joy of his three sons: Greg, Mark, and Vince. They and all those who knew Geoffrey will remember him for his humor, both intentional and not. The world is a lesser place for his passing.
A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, August 18 from 3 to 9pm at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. Funeral information: (708) 352-6500
So sorry for his family’s loss. He was ONE COOL DUDE!
Missing You Much Geoff, RIP Bruh. ❤️🙏🏾
I’m really sad to hear about Geoff. We were close friends in Hi School and had some wild and crazy times. I will always remember his great sense of humor. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
From his love of music we became best friends for four years of college.
From his knowledge of the human heart I learned this January to trust my cardiologists.
From his love of life I learned to never lose heart.
To the boys – He will be with you forever in time and memory.
To Ralph – call me when things slow down. I had a long/good talk with Mark circa 8/8 when I got the news. He has my #.
What a generous caring guy your brother was. I’ll be thinking of you all tomorrow.
We had some great times together. He was such a great person he really enjoyed life and family time. He will truly be missed. Prayers go out to his family.
Geoff, we had such a good visit at the ND reunion in June. I remember you strumming my guitar late in the evening, in the dorm lobby, singing some of your favorite tunes. Music was such a deep connection for us. You had “big ears”, such a good listener. We had several good phone conversations the last few months. You were so proud of Greg, Mark, and Vince, updating me on where they were and what they were doing. You were so generous, offering to loan me an amplifier and guitar, or to pick me up at the airport. You called that afternoon of the 6th, telling me about grilling with your buddies, including Bert. We talked about Faye, your sons, the reunion, music, and visiting Texas. Vaya con Dios, mi hermano.
Geoff, you were such a fun, nice and sincere person with whom I’ve had some great conversations over the years. I will remember them fondly. Your presence on Earth will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, my friend.
As a 20 year neighbor I will definitely miss your afternoon and evening music selections as well as the wo derful smells from your grilling. As a fellow Domer you’ll be in my prayers during every ND game, which I know you loved.
Yours in ND
REE
First of all, my deepest condolences to Geoff’s three sons. Your Dad was so proud of you! Condolences to Ralph and the rest of Geoff’s family and friends. What a shock and a tragedy as he was finally getting ready to retire.. and recently had his knee fixed.. Our friendship spanned from late 1970s until this year…we kept in touch on-and-off. I wanted us to get together when we were older and in wheel chairs…Will miss that humor,cockiness and caring. Very sorry to hear about this.
And he flossed every day! MY HERO!
we have known geoff from years back when we all played volleyball together on sunday afternoons, and continued through the open mics at joes saloon where geoff would perform. one of his favorite selections: ‘with a little help from my friends’. very stunned and sorry to hear of his passing. we will miss him and his good humor! we extend our deepest condolensces to the arata family and wish him peace. rip brother geoff.
We were friends at Notre Dame. Brilliant, funny, deeply caring, musical, loyal and all other good adjectives. I had long conversations with you at the reunion Geoff. I will remember that forever. All of what the others said above I affirm. Your magnetic personality drew people to you. I just CANNOT believe we won’t see you again in this life. Heartbroken in philadelphia. You raves about your boys that Friday night of reunion weekend this past June. and your love for them was palpable. Boys – your dad was an incredible decent person who loved you to pieces. God bless.
Everything Geoff did evolved around the joy
He found in the love of his son’s.
My thoughts and prayers are with you guys Ralph and Susan. This very day last year he came to Park Ridge and took my 96 year old dad to lunch- updated us on all your tremendous accomplishments. They were so happy together sharing the joy of your lives.
My family extends condolences as well – they always loved him too.
Peace be with you all. 🕊️
He will always be a positive force and a bright shinning 🌟 in our lives.