South Deerfield, MA – On May 16, 2026 Edward P. Gass passed away with his loving family by his side. He was born July 22, 1929 to Lucille Estella (Stowell) and William E. Gass. He graduated from Deerfield Academy and attended Nichols Junior College before enlisting in the US Air Force in January 1951 where he served as a mechanic on F86s jets. He spent 14 months at Kimpo Air Force Base near Seoul Korea. Upon his honorable discharge he returned to work in his father's and grandfather's colonial restoration construction company. As a young man he helped move many historic buildings starting with homes moved out of the Quabbin Reservoir Area, the preservation of houses on "The Street" in Old Deerfield fabricating many doors in his mill shop. He worked throughout New England on many restoration projects and continued making furniture and woodworking projects until his death.
He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed hunting with his many bird dogs. While semiretired he learned surfing the internet and playing many games and continued to learn new skill associated with computer technology and computers. He enjoyed his family, and reading, and building flying model airplanes.
He is survived by a son Paul Gass and Jackie Rose of Greenfield; daughters Karen Bartos and life partner Curtis Fiske of Erving, and Jacqueline Staelens of Conway; grandchildren Dustin Gass, Michael Bartos, Samantha Staelens, Hannah Dupras and Zachary Wysocki; Siblings William Gass, Jonathan and Ginny Gass. Lorraine Brandner and several nieces and nephews. His wife Lauretta of 63 years passed in 2017. A son Daniel, Grandson Eric and sibling Eugene preceded him in death.
In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to Dakin Humane society. An Interment will take place in Brookside Cemetery at a later date. Thanks to Cynthia his live in caretaker and to the wonderful people at Hospice.A Graveside service will be held Saturday June 6, 2026 at 11 am at Brookside Cemetery in South Deerfield.
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