PERU, Mass. — Jack V. Groat, 86, of Peru, passed away Thursday June 1, 2017, at Berkshire Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. 

Born in Pittsfield on October 15, 1930, the son of the late Willis H. Groat and the former Madelyn A. Nardin, he attended local schools. Jack enlisted in the Unites States Navy with the Seabees and proudly served his country during both the Vietnam and Korean War. Jack was a member of the American Legion and VFW.

Jack enjoyed woodworking and tending to his yard. However, his greatest joy was spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, the former Julia L. Loynes; his sons, Stephen E. Groat of New York and David T. Groat of Boston; his daughter, Doreen E. Groat of Pittsfield; his sister, Joan M. Gates of Pittsfield; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his son, Glenn H. Groat, who died in 1976; his brothers, Willis H. Groat, James E. Groat and Clifford H. Groat; and his sister, Inez Sciola. 

Funeral notice: Funeral Services for Jack V. Groat, who died June 1, 207, will be held Wednesday, June 8, 2017, at 10 a.m. at Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford St., Pittsfield. Burial will follow in the family plot in Pittsfield Cemetery. 

Calling hours will be Tuesday, June 7, 2017, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Jack’s memory can be made to the American Diabetes Association or the Leukemia Association of America.