Vernon J. 'Vern' Gresh, 81, of Avon, Farmington HS Band Director

From Ahern Funeral Home.

Vernon J. “Vern” Gresh of Avon, beloved husband of Myrna (Sidoti) Gresh, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 3, 2014.

He was born on Dec. 7, 1932, son of the late Michael Gresh and Ann (Lehmann) Gresh of Unionville. Vern spent most of his life living in the Farmington Valley and most of his time was spent as a resident of Avon. After completing his education in the Farmington school system, Vern served in the Korean War from 1953 to 1955. During that time he served in the 44th Infantry Division Band, which later became the 2nd Division Infantry Band.

During his years in the military Vern decided that a career in music education would be his goal. He played both the baritone horn and the trombone during his time in the service but decided on the trombone as his instrument of choice. Upon his discharge, he entered the Hartt College of Music, where he earned his degree in Music Education. Vern began his teaching career in Hamden. Also at this time, he decided to revive the Tunxis Valley Band which had been disbanded during World War II. The band grew in number and performed in many parades and concerts. It was finally renamed the Tunxis Symphonic Band.

After leaving Hamden, Vern became the band director at Farmington High School. He remained teaching in the Farmington school system until his retirement.

During his retirement Vern and his wife Myrna of 54 years, enjoyed many winters in Naples, FL. Vern was a longtime communicant at the Church of St. Ann in Avon and served as an usher for many years. He always enjoyed playing card games with several groups during his leisure time.

Besides his wife, he is survived by three children, Linda Hassett, Lisa Fanti and her husband Craig, Joseph Gresh, and two grandchildren, Ellen Sanchez and her husband Michael, and Ryan Fanti. His surviving brothers and sisters are Herbert Gresh and his wife Charlene, Gregory Gresh and his wife Noreen, John Gresh, Mary Miser and her husband Wendel, Anne Galliot, and Michelle Rubirosa. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his two brothers, Theodore Gresh and Robert Gresh.

Friends may call at The Ahern Funeral Home, 111 Main St., Rte. 4, Unionville, on Thursday, Aug. 7 , from 4 to 7 p.m. Funeral procession from The Ahern Funeral Home will be Friday, Aug. 8 at 9:15 a.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial in the Church of St. Ann, Avon at 10 a.m. Burial with full military honors will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Avon.

In lieu of flowers, you may make donations to the Helen and Harry Gray Cancer Center, 80 Fischer Dr., Avon, CT 06001, or McLean Hospice Care at 75 Great Pond Rd., Simsbury, CT 06070.

To send online condolences to the family, please visitwww.ahernfuneralhome.com.