Gerald J. Bliss

Bliss, Gerald J., October 11, 2020, age 98. Beloved husband of the late Virginia. Dear father of Nancy (Larry) Sigel and the late Donald (Kathy). Proud grandfather of Kaytee (Mike), Chuck (Sarah), David (Conny) and Ken. Great Grandfather of Payton, Brooklin, Brady, Zofia, Camden, Mira, and Crew.

Gerry was the singer in the family. At an early age, he developed a stutter. His family sent him to a specialist who used singing as one of his methods to try to abate the stutter. It worked even better for Dad, who they discovered had an excellent tenor voice. That led to vocal training. Some opera, bands and choirs followed over the years. Even a short stint with the Glen Miller Orchestra.

Dad worked at several jobs in his teens but was lucky to be hired by General Motors at age 19. He worked for them in Die Engineering until he was 62 years old. During that time, he met his future wife. Ginny (Virginia) Szczesniak. He and “his Ginny” were a great team in faith and in fun. They worked for the church and helped at their children’s catholic schools. Square dancing, traveling and family were constants in their lives together. When mom passed, Dad continued many travels and church activities until about 10 years ago. Dementia and illness crept in. A few days before he passed, I was adjusting his covers. I asked if he was comfortable. He began pushing at his blanket. “Are you cold Dad,” I asked. He whispered, the beautiful voice almost stilled, grinned and said, “No, I’m hot stuff.” That was our Dad. Ever upbeat, ever joking. Even near death.

Visitation at Bagnasco & Calcaterra Funeral Home, 13650 E. 15 Mile Rd., Sterling Heights, MI, Wednesday from 3-9 pm with a Rosary at 7:00 pm. Funeral Thursday at St. Blase Catholic Church, 12151 E. 15 Mile Rd., Sterling Heights, MI, Instate at 9:00 am until time of Mass at 9:30 am. Burial at Resurrection Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are appreciated by the family to the Capuchins and the Alzheimer’s Society. Please see links below.

Due to the current health conditions facial masks must be worn and proper social distancing will be required.