Gloria Margaret Bliss

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Gloria Margaret Bliss (nee Potyok) on July 18, 2026, in Fort Erie, Ontario, at the age of 86, in the loving embrace of all five of her children.

Gloria left a lasting impact on the lives of everyone who knew her, due to her genuine kindness, sincere interest in others, and limitless supply of love and encouragement for everyone she met.

Wife of 50 years to Raymond Milton Bliss (1941-2014), Gloria was born in Flin Flon, Manitoba before moving to Fort Erie. She attended Loretto High School, leaving early to enjoy some time in Toronto where she worked in insurance. She courageously earned her diploma and graduated from high school at the age of 58.

She met Ray at Windmill Point Quarry, married in 1964, and moved to Crescent Park in 1970. They created a home full of love that nurtured the old fashioned value of “let the kids play outside and get muddy,” with an open door for neighbourhood kids as well. Their home was even open to other kids who lived there for months at a time, with Gloria acting as a second mom to many.

She showed her love and generosity to friends and neighbours by sharing her famous banana bread, butter tarts, and surprise packages of cookies left in mailboxes.

She balanced work and volunteerism while raising five children. Her list of volunteer work reflected a joy of helping others - St. Vincent DePaul, Douglas Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, Arthritis Society, Big Brothers and Sisters, Red Cross Donor Clinics, PTA at St. Philomena School, Catholic Women’s League, and as Minister of the Eucharist.

Daughter of Steve and Sophie Potyok, Gloria is survived by children Matthew (Katuu), Paul (Minna), Michele, Colleen, Craig (Anita). “Nana” cherished her grandchildren Connor & Bee, Audrey, Alex & Nathan, Austin & Jacob, Ethan & Kalan, who will always remember playing Scrabble and Quiddler at the dining room table, and hearing her shout “I love you immensely!” from the front porch every single time they drove away.

Gloria had a special relationship with nature and saw beauty in everything. She was a fixture riding her bike or walking on the Friendship Trail. You could often find her strolling through the woods or ruins of the Old Dance Hall at Waverly Beach, collecting rocks and fossils every time.

Sister to Ron (Barbara) both deceased, Robert (Sharon) deceased, Dennis (Debbie), and treasured sister-in-law to Nate & Martha Bliss. Incredibly loved by her many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Thanks to Michelle Dobbin for her love and support.

Sincere thanks to Dr. Tharmaballa and the Walker Family Cancer Centre. The Bliss family extends utmost gratitude to Dr. Kim Scher for his outstanding care, both at home and in hospital. The nursing team at Douglas Memorial Hospital will forever be in our hearts.

Gloria leaves behind many dear friends. The family is grateful to everyone who’s shown support throughout Gloria’s cancer journey.

Visitation will be held Friday, July 24th from 1pm to 3pm and 6pm to 8pm at Benner Funeral Home.

A funeral Mass will be held Saturday, July 25th, at St. Michael's Catholic Church, 310 Central Ave, Fort Erie, Ontario, at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Douglas Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, earmarked for Fort Erie Hospice.

St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church will livecast the service on their facebook site for anyone wishing to watch and unable to attend.