Robert Norman "Bob" Bisson

Robert "Bob" Norman Bisson (1933 – 2026)
The world became a little less bright on January 21, 2026, as Robert "Bob" Norman
Bisson passed away peacefully.
Bob was born in Rollinsford (Salmon Falls) NH on October 3, 1933 – the son of Albert
and Marion (Roberge) Bisson. Through his journey of 92 years, he touched many lives
with his wisdom, humor and unwavering spirit of perseverance.
Bob grew up with a deep appreciation for hard work and family, after losing his father at
a young age. He joined the U.S. Navy at the age of 17, serving his country with honor
and integrity on the USS Albany. After his service in the Navy, he returned home to work
and help support his mother, while also dating and ultimately winning over the love of
his life Joanne LaFleur. Bob and Joanne would marry in August of 1957, settling back
into life in Rollinsford where they started their family of four children.
Bob lived most of his life in the small town of Rollinsford. During his time there, he was a
very active and dedicated member of the local Fire Department serving as the
Rollinsford Fire Chief for several years. Although not an easy job, he took great pride in
serving his community, friends and neighbors in this way.
Most of Bob's work career was spent in the mechanical trades, working in area auto
dealerships, including many years at Tri-City Dodge in Somersworth. Bob would
eventually own and operate his own automotive repair shop – Bisson Auto Service in
Rollinsford. Beginning first in the garage of the family home on Locust Street, then
eventually operating a small service station on Main Street. He took immense pride in
his craft, often working long "after hours" to help local folks in need of car repairs, big
and small – a true quiet hometown hero in many ways.
Years later, Bob took a mechanics position at GTE Sylvania (Osram) in Exeter, even
going back to school to learn the new skills he would need to support the equipment at
the plant. This is the job that Bob would eventually retire from to spend more time with
family and to continue his passion for woodworking. Bob put the same energy,
enthusiasm and effort into his woodworking and carpentry as he did to all other things in
his life. He passed along his skills and knowledge with those he loved, helping to build
and or remodel the homes of all 4 of his children at one point or another. He was a
talented woodworker, gifting many people with beautiful pieces of handmade furniture,
including custom-made toy boxes for his grandchildren. Many of his pieces are still
being enjoyed by family today.
Bob found joy not only in woodworking, but in spending time with family and friends.
Among his favorite pastimes were reading, fishing, eating lobster, cookouts with
neighbors and family, boating and swimming at Great East Lake and oh, yes - eating
lobster! He hosted many family lobster bakes out of his home garage, spending weeks
cleaning and preparing – he seriously had the cleanest garage in town!
While family was always close by, life was different after Joanne passed away in 2012.
In May of 2023, Bob moved into the Wentworth Home in Dover, NH, where he did not
have to grocery shop, plan meals and cook for himself! Little did he, or any of us know,
how comfortable he would become there, and how well cared for and loved. He
participated in morning chair yoga, enjoyed special meals – (yes, including an
occasional lobster roll!), became very competitive in Wii bowling, made many new
friends and won over the staff with his charm, wit and humor! And while we were not
ready to lose him, it is here that he passed away - quietly, peacefully and on his own
terms.
One of the nicest souls on this planet, Bob had a deep devotion to family and worked
tirelessly to ensure that his family had everything they needed. He faced every
challenge in life with admirable strength and courage. His laughter and sense of humor
brought joy to everyone around him. He lived a very full life, was greatly loved, and will
be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years
Joanne (LaFleur) Bisson, his sister Claire (Bisson) Fife, and his brother Ronald Bisson.
He is survived by his children, Claire Moorhead and husband Doug of Thornton, NH,
Dennis Bisson and wife Kendra of Wakefield NH, David Bisson and wife Mary K Doty of
Barrington NH, and daughter Cathy Bisson of Lyman NH; his grandchildren Tyler Bisson
and wife Sarah, Taryn Cowing and husband Paul, Amelia Moorhead and husband Jose
Rosa, Jason Pollack and wife Jen, and Alyssa Dekeon. He was also blessed with great
grandchildren Boaz, Lily-Jo Ann, Parker, Bryson and Addison. He also leaves behind
several close cousins, extended family members, and close friends.
Those who wish to remember and honor Bob are invited to join the family to share
stories and a hug on Friday January 30, 2026, at McIntire-McCooey Funeral Home, 301
Main Street, South Berwick, Maine. Visitation will take place from 10:30 am -12 noon
with a short service from 12:00 – 12:30 pm. A luncheon will follow.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you would consider a donation to The Wentworth Home, a
non-profit assisted living community, 795 Central Avenue, Dover NH 03820, www.wentworthhome.com