Joseph R. Bisson

He was born in Sanford, ME on November 10, 1925, the son of Lucien and Azilda Bisson. He was a veteran of both WWII and Korea. He was only 17 years of age when he enlisted in the US Navy and was stationed on a ship in the English Channel on D-Day. Never losing dedication to his years of military service, he became the assistant chaplain for the past 12 years of the NH American Legion. He was a member of the American Legion Post #79.

The two proudest accomplishments in his life were his family and service to his country. He studied at the University of Maine, Harvard and Springfield College where he received a master's degree in counseling psychology. He focused on addiction counseling.

He served on the committee for the prevention of homelessness at the VA Medical Center. He was a member of the board of directors for the Liberty House, a transitional facility for homeless veterans. He was a strong advocate for veterans' benefits and volunteered as a counselor the VA Medical Center for the past 32 years.

Given his devout Christian beliefs, he had a deeper service to humanity. Whilst on an international peace mission to Israel, he was re-baptized in the River Jordan at the age of 81. Amongst his charitable endeavors, he was a dedicated volunteer and member of the palliative care team at the VA Medical Center. He enjoyed bringing comfort and solace to the hospitalized veterans who have borne the battle.

He was predeceased by his wife Lorraine (Dean) Bisson.

Family members include three sons, Randolph Bisson of Georgetown, MA, Douglas Bisson of Nashua, and Gregory Bisson of Berlin, NH; five daughters, Rachelle Francouer of Nashua, Sheila Bisson of Derry, Lorraine Stumpf of Nashua, Paula Holbrook of Nashua and Nicole Hanning of Merrimack; 17 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter; a sister, Jackie Larosa of Sanford, ME.

It is with sincere gratitude and heart-felt love that Joseph R. Bisson dedicates these passing words to Carol Gangi. Over the past 10 plus years, you have been my friend, companion and life. Your comfort, support and gentle touch has provided peace in my soul. Know in your heart, that you were sincerely loved, gratefully admired and truly cherished; from then until now. Miss you Gertrude!

"Think here man's glory most begins and ends, and say my glory was I had such a friend." -William Yeats

With all my Love, Joe

Urn burial with military honors will take place in the NH State Veterans Cemetery in the Spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Liberty House, 75 West Baker St, Manchester, NH 03103.