Berley A. Mears Jr., proud veteran

 Berley A. Mears Jr. passed away peacefully Wednesday, June 5, 2024, in Delaware. He was born and raised in Norwalk, Conn. 

Berley was born in 1948, son of Berley A. Mears Sr. and Josephine Aquino Mears. His parents and brother, Major, predeceased him. Berley is survived by his sister, Judith Mears of California; brother, Alan Mears (Cathy) and niece Melissa Mears of Connecticut; his former wife, Bonnie Bowersox; their two children, Wendy Workman and Berley A. Mears; grandchildren, Bailey and Canaan Mears, all of Delaware; and another daughter, Kaitlyn Mears of Florida.

Berley loved growing up in Norwalk near Long Island Sound. It was there that he developed his lifelong love of fishing and boating.

His first job as a teenager was at the Palace Theater, where he met lifelong friends. He enjoyed reminiscing with them on visits back to Norwalk. 

Berley enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Germany and Vietnam. He was awarded the National Defense, Vietnam Service, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign medals, and the Sharpshooter Badge. 

After returning home, Berley worked for the CTDOT before opening his first business, Lads and Lassies Billiard Hall. He also owned a successful pet store in New Canaan. 

In 1984, Berley and his family purchased a farm in Delaware and grew chickens for major companies. He also opened Fat Boys motorcycle shop and Seaford Alternator and Starter Shop. 

A proud veteran, he belonged to the local AMVETS and VFW, volunteering his time to paint a display tank. He loved riding his Harley with fellow vets.

And most of all, he loved being Poppi to his grandkids. 

Thanks for the memories; we will see you again. Love from us all.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, June 20, at St. John's, Norwalk, Conn.   

Donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, stjude.org/donate. 

Online condolences can be made by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.