Bernard J. Bisson

Born on August 19, 1935, to Gilbert and Fabiana (Piche) Bisson, Barney grew up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He attended Michigan Technological University and received his Master’s Degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where he developed the foundation for what would become a distinguished career in engineering. Barney also proudly served his country in the United States Army.

A gifted engineer, inventor, and lifelong problem solver, Barney enjoyed a remarkable professional career spanning aerospace and civil engineering. His work at Pratt & Whitney and the Chandler Evans Corporation included innovative aircraft fuel-system designs, technical research, and patented technologies. His engineering expertise also extended to work associated with NASA. He later established his own civil engineering consulting business in New Hartford, Connecticut, where he and his family made their home. Even in retirement, his passion for engineering continued through his work with Albany County, Wyoming, contributing his knowledge and experience to local infrastructure and water systems.

For all his professional accomplishments, Barney’s greatest devotion was to the life he shared with his beloved wife of more than 60 years, Marie Jean (Stawski) Bisson. Marie was truly the love of his life, his closest companion, and his partner in every adventure. Together, they built a life filled with family, friendship, laughter, and a shared appreciation for life’s experiences.

One of Barney’s unsurpassed passions was hockey. He held season tickets to the Whalers when they played at the Hartford Civic Center. Barney found tremendous happiness coaching and helping young players develop their skills and confidence. His enthusiasm for the game and his dedication to mentoring young athletes became an enduring part of his life.

When Barney and Marie retired to Centennial, Wyoming, they embraced an exciting new chapter together. Surrounded by the beauty of the mountains, which they fondly referred to as God’s Country, both became ski instructors, sharing their love of the outdoors and winter sports. They treasured their years in Wyoming, where they formed friendships, created wonderful memories, and enjoyed every moment of the life they had chosen. Barney also continued his involvement in youth hockey, generously sharing his experience and love for the sport with another generation of players.

Through all the chapters of his life, Barney remained devoted to the people and pursuits that mattered most to him. His years were filled with meaningful work, time on the ice and ski slopes, and, above all, Marie.

Barney was predeceased by Marie, who passed away in March, 2025. He is survived by his son, Joseph B. Bisson, and daughter-in-law, Kathleen, and grandchildren Jackson and Emi of Chester, Connecticut; his daughter, Jean Marie Remick, and son-in-law, Glenn of Wellesley, Massachusetts; and his grand pup Walter. He also leaves his brother-in-law, John Stawski and wife, Carol, of Scotia, New York, along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

Barney will be remembered for his inventive mind, his enthusiasm for hockey and skiing, and the adventurous spirit that carried him through a full and remarkable life. Above all, he will be remembered for the enduring love he shared with Marie, a partnership that remained at the heart of his life’s story. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the memories that will be treasured for generations to come.

All services will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to The USA Hockey Foundation’s Youth Hockey Development Fund to honor Barney’s lifelong passion for coaching and mentoring young athletes. Donations can be made online at The USA Hockey Foundation or mailed to: The USA Hockey Foundation, 1775 Bob Johnson Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80906.

https://www.usahockeyfoundation.com/