Donald E. DeBlieux

1936, - 2024

Donald E. DeBlieux, 87 of Pittsfield, passed away August 9, 2024 after a brief illness. Born in Pittsfield, MA on September 27, 1936, he was the son of the late Earl and Irene Jacob DeBlieux.

He was a 1955 graduate of Pittsfield High School. In 1959, he graduated from Norwich University with his bachelor of science degree in engineering and where he achieved the rank of 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army.

Don was an electrical engineer for 32 years at General Electric in Ordinance Systems. Upon his retirement, he worked at George's Liquors for many years.

He was an active communicant of Sacred Heart Church and one of the first Eucharistic Ministers in the parish. He continued to serve at daily mass until June of this year. He was a member of the GE ELFUN society. Donald was a registered engineer and member of the GE Pensioner's Club and GE Quarter Century Club.

Don was an avid golfer and longtime member of Berkshire Hills Country Club. Some of his golf balls may still be in the woods on the right side of the fairways due to his famous slice, "the banana ball." A hockey player at PHS, he continued to play in adult leagues for many years. He enjoyed collecting stamps and coins, and playing chess (he taught the game to his grandchildren). He was famous for his ability to fix any toaster, radio or lamp and for his delicious pickled eggs.

Mr. DeBlieux is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary Carolan DeBlieux of Pittsfield. He also leaves their children, Donald DeBlieux and wife Amy of Park City, UT, Karen Vachon and husband Mark of Boston, Michael DeBlieux and wife Betsy of West Hartford, CT and Adrienne DeBlieux Speed and husband Matthew of Pittsfield. He also leaves three grandchildren, Lauren Vachon and husband Daniel Trujillo Diaz, Philip Vachon and Scott DeBlieux. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews and their families.

Don and Mary enjoyed many lifelong friendships, especially with Tom and Carol (Castagnetti) Rodhouse and Karl and Pamela (Douglas) Heye.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Marlee Manns, Rosemary Ditello and Earl DeBlieux, Jr.

He will be dearly missed by friends and family.

FUNERAL NOTICE: A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held, Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at 12 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, celebrated by Rev. Steven Montesanti, Pastor. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. Calling hours will precede the mass at the church from 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made payable to Sacred Heart Church or the Berkshire Humane Society and mailed to Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford St., Pittsfield, MA 01201.