Bernard Joseph Palmeri

He was a retired Chief Master Sergeant with 42 years of military service spanning the US Air Force and New York State Air National Guard. He served in the Korean War and flew air combat rescue as a flight engineer on HC130 for over 15 years. He served as a Senior Enlisted Advisor for the State of New York; receiving the Meritorious Service Medal for his distinguished service. Upon retirement he served as a volunteer in the Tri-County Fire Department for over 25 years, as well as a past member of the Fairfield Harbor Yacht Club and RV Club. He loved adventure and pursued his passion to sail, ski, travel and RV with his wife, family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Debbie Palmeri; son, Charles Palmeri; stepchildren, Maria Baird, Christopher DeLorenzo and Michael DeLorenzo; grandchildren and many loving family members and close friends.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, June 5, 2023, at St. Paul Catholic Church. Following the service, Bernard and Debbie will be laid to rest together at St. Joseph Cemetery. Military Honors will be performed at the graveside.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made in Bernard's honor to the Wounded Warriors Project by visiting https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Bernard Joseph Palmeri. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cottenfuneralhome.com website for the Palmeri family.