Verne E. Bliss, Jr.

Verne E. Bliss, Jr., 92, passed away Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at Charlene Manor Extended Care in Greenfield.

     Verne was born in Charlemont on December 4, 1929 the son of Verne E. and Edna (Richmond) Bliss. He attended the Little Red Schoolhouse in East Charlemont and graduated from Charlemont High School, class of 47.

     He was inducted into the US Army on March 19, 1951 and served during the Korean war. He was assigned to the Transportation Corps, delivering equipment and machinery where it was needed. He was Honorably discharged on March 18, 1953. He was proud of his service and proud to be a veteran.

     Verne married his lifelong partner, Janet (Albee) on August 18, 1956. Sixty-one years of love and devotion sustained them throughout the years and never wavered. Sadly, it was on their 61st anniversary when Janet passed.

     He was employed by the former Kendall Mills, later becoming American Fiber & Finishing, as a machinist for many years. He retired in 1992.

     To all who knew Verne, he was an amazing man with a heart of gold. Always putting others needs before his own, He was a kind-hearted gentle man. A true gentleman devoted to his loving family. Verne could also be a stubborn man who remained true to his conviction and not much could slow him down. He was a fighter in terms of his health and ability to get the job done. Although he suffered many small strokes as a younger man and the general aches and pains of growing older, you never heard him complain.

     He was an avid fan of both the Red Sox and Celtics.

     Verne leaves behind two strong and loving daughters; Debra (Charley) Ryan of Hubbardston, MA and Valerie (Curtis) Smith of Chicopee, MA, a granddaughter Mackenzie “Kenzie” Ryan, sister-in-law Sandi Lancour, brother-in-law Jack Albee, many nieces and nephews including locally Marla and Brad Hoyt, and good friend Jack Hoyt.

     Verne’s daughters would like to acknowledge sister-in-law Heather Hoyt for her caregiving, companionship and support she has given to Verne over the years.

     A special thank you to Melissa and her dog “Gronk” from Visiting Angels for their visits and assistance with Verne.

     At Verne’s request, there will be a graveside service on Friday, Dec. 17 at 1:00 pm, at Leavitt Cemetery in Charlemont. There are no calling hours.

     In lieu of flowers, it is suggested memorial contributions be made to a local veterans agency such as Wounded Warriors, Soldier On or the D.A.V.

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