Bernard D. Litchfield Jr., 78
NEW MARLBOROUGH, Mass. — Bernard Daniel Litchfield Jr., 78, beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, departed this earth May 20, 2017, surrounded by his loving family.
Dan was born April 20, 1939, in Sheffield, Mass., to Bernard D. Litchfield Sr. and Gladys Curtis Litchfield, the youngest of four children. The family later moved to Great Barrington where he attended Searles High School graduating in 1958. Upon graduating he enlisted in the United States Army Reserves where he served until his Honorable Discharge in June of 1963.
While serving, he married Beverly Ann Stevens on May 16, 1959 and they recently celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary. Bev and Dan wasted no time starting a family of their own, and before you knew it there were five new additions to the family. Bev and Dan still found time to take the occasional ride on his favorite BSA motorcycle. During his early years, Dan was employed at Pfizer's in Canaan, Conn., as a heavy equipment operator and later went to work at W.C. Stevens Electrical Contracting, where he worked until 1980 when he took over the business.
Dan enjoyed many years as a successful contractor with a deep commitment to his customers and quality of his work. Dan was also involved in town affairs having been the Sanitation Inspector for many years. He was also a long standing member of the New Marlborough Volunteer Fire Department and had the distinction of serving as the chief. Dan always found a haven from the trials & tribulations of life at the local fire station with his fellow firefighters. Dan was always involved in the activities of his children and grandchildren; he was a regular at all school and athletic events and took great pride in the accomplishments of this family.
Dan was a devoted husband to his loving wife Beverly and enjoyed their vacations to Florida. Dan loved all sporting events, especially NASCAR Auto Racing and his trips to the track at Daytona.
Dan leaves behind his wife of 58 years Beverly; sister Betty Shepard; sons Daniel (Becky), William (Cathy) and Robert; a daughter, Maureen Krejci (Joseph); grandchildren Crystal (Glenn), John, Hannah (Chad), Danielle, Daniel and Abigail; and six great-grandchildren, Amber, Jeff, Renée, Lilly, Aleeah, and Caliana.
Dan was predeceased by his parents, Gladys and Bernard; two sisters, Agnes and Bernice; and his beloved daughter Marilyn.
Dan will be missed by all those who loved him and remembered him for his wit, smile and willingness to always help.
Funeral notice: There will be calling hours Friday, May 26, 2017, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home. A celebration of his time with us will take place on Saturday, May 27, at 11 a.m. at the Southfield Church with burial to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the New Marlborough Volunteer First Responders or New Marlborough Volunteer Fire Company care of Finnerty & Stevens Funeral Home, 426 Main St., Great Barrington, MA 01230.