Robert C. Bard

1945 - 2026

Robert Charles Bard, 80 years old from Dalton, MA, passed away unexpectedly on January 28, 2026, at home where he and his wife had resided for more than two decades. For the past nine years, he had been the devoted caregiver to his beloved wife, Jean Mackenzie, whom he married on June 17, 1972, who has been living with dementia.

Born in Pittsfield on May 21, 1945, Bob was the son of the late Charles T. and Elenora Nuciforo Bard.

He graduated from Pittsfield High School and went on to earn his master's degree from North Adams State College. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1966 to 1968, receiving the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with two stars and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device.

Mr. Bard dedicated many years to the Pittsfield Public Schools as a Physical Education teacher. He later worked as a stockbroker for many years for JP Morgan and served as a Deputy Sheriff with the Berkshire County Sheriff's Office Uniform Division performing various assignments, including details at Tanglewood. For numerous years, he also coached Pittsfield High School football and tennis, sharing his passion for sports with countless students.

Throughout his lifetime, Mr. Bard and his wife shared a love of staying active, enjoying swimming, kayaking, biking, and traveling together, especially to Aruba and Graceland. He held a longtime membership at Bousquet Sports and loved playing tennis with his friends both there and at his home. A devoted New England Patriots fan, he excelled in athletics during his youth and was recognized as an All-Berkshire tight end in high school football. He cherished watching football with his family and valued the friendships he built through his long-standing Wednesday and Sunday coffee groups. He often ended the week at Mazzeo's with friends on Friday evenings. Above all, he was a selfless and devoted family man who placed his loved ones at the center of his life.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jean Bard of Dalton; their children, Allison Bard and her partner Kevin O'Neill of Pittsfield, Christopher Bard of Dalton, and Adam Bard of NY. His grandson, Jonathan Howard of Pittsfield; brother, Richard Bard and wife Judy of Pittsfield and brother-in-law, Robert Mackenzie and wife Patricia of CT. He also leaves many extended family members and friends.

FUNERAL NOTICE: Calling hours will be held, Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 10 to 12 p.m. at Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford St, Pittsfield. A funeral service will follow at 12:15 p.m., with Rev. Matthew Barone officiating. Those unable to attend may contact Dery Funeral Home for the Zoom link.