T. Geoffrey Traub

T. Geoffrey “Jeff” Traub

December 2, 1943 – September 6, 2026

There are some people whose presence becomes part of the fabric of your life, and Jeff Traub was one of those people. He was larger than life—strong-willed, quick-witted, passionate, and always leaving people with stories they would tell for years.

Jeff was the beloved husband and lifelong partner of Denise (Queen). Together, they built a life filled with love, family, travel, laughter, and countless adventures. Denise was his partner in every sense of the word, by his side through all of life’s seasons. Their relationship was built on deep love, loyalty, and a shared life that meant everything to them both.

As a devoted father to Geoff (Brenda), Doug (Wendy), Samantha (Brad) and Kelly, he was their unwavering supporter. He believed in them, stood behind them, and was always there when they needed him. His children knew they could count on him, and he took enormous pride in watching each of them build lives of their own.

A proud grandfather of 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, “PutPut” treasured spending time with them. He especially loved being silly—goofing off, playing along with their antics, and doing whatever it took to get them laughing. PutPut brought out the kid in himself, and those playful moments became some of the memories his grandchildren will treasure most.

Football was one of Jeff’s great passions. As Captain of the 1965 Bucknell football team that won the Middle Atlantic Conference Championship, he embodied the leadership, toughness, commitment, and teamwork that would remain hallmarks of his life.

Jeff’s Bucknell years also gave him something that would last a lifetime: his FIJI brothers. As a member of Phi Gamma Delta, he formed a brotherhood that extended well beyond his college years. Those friendships were filled with shared memories, stories, traditions, and plenty of good-natured trouble—a bond that truly stood the test of time.

As a youth football coach, Jeff was a mentor to many of his athletes. He was deeply dedicated to the young men he coached and wanted them to become not only better athletes, but better people. He expected a lot because he believed in their potential. His toughness, honesty, knowledge of the game, and genuine care earned him the respect of his players. For many, Jeff’s influence lasted long after their playing days were over. He taught discipline, accountability, perseverance, and character, leaving an impact that reached far beyond the football field.

Jeff’s love of sports never faded. He was a passionate fan of West Virginia football, Villanova basketball, and the Philadelphia Eagles, and sports became an integral part of his family culture. His fashion line reflected that passion almost exclusively, consisting of the sweatshirts and hats of his beloved teams. His unwavering commitment to his sports wardrobe drew plenty of good-natured jokes—but Jeff wore it all with pride.

Though tough on the exterior, those who knew Jeff best knew there was a big heart underneath. He was fiercely loyal, generous with his time, and someone people could count on. He also loved a good prank and never missed an opportunity to stir things up, keep people on their toes, or get a laugh. His mischievous sense of humor was unmistakable.

Many of the friendships Jeff made throughout the years became like family, and he cherished those relationships deeply. He loved these friends with the same loyalty and affection he gave to those closest to him, and their presence brought him tremendous joy throughout his life.

Being outdoors and staying busy were trademark traits of Jeff’s, and his hobbies included fishing, cutting wood, skiing, traveling, tailgating, and building large, questionable bonfires. He loved a day on the water, a pile of wood that needed cutting, a good tailgate before a game, or a night around a fire with family and friends. He knew how to enjoy the simple things—and how to make those moments memorable.

Jeff leaves behind a legacy in the people whose lives he touched. His lessons, laughter, loyalty, and unmistakable personality will live on in all of them.

May you always have a bonfire burning, a fishing rod nearby, and a Miller in your hand. We hope there’s a good game on, plenty of wood to cut, and someone nearby who is ready for one of your pranks.