Michael Sullivan Bliss was born on November 19, 1964, in Chowchilla, California, to his late parents, Michael Lee Bliss and Elfrieda Ann Bliss. He spent his life dedicated to his family, his work, and his community, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. His sudden death has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and colleagues.
A dedicated farmer by trade, Michael Bliss was also a deeply involved member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church and Sacred Heart Parish. His commitment to his faith was further demonstrated through his active participation in the Knights of Columbus Council #15583, serving the Planada and Le Grand communities. Michael’s contributions extended beyond his immediate community, as he also served as a board member for the El Nido Natural Resources Conservation Service, where his efforts helped to preserve and protect the local environment.
Michael’s professional life was marked by his long-standing association with Fluetsch & Busby Insurance. Known for his dedication and expertise, he was highly respected by his colleagues and clients alike. His passing is not just a loss to his family but to the entire professional community that he served with integrity and passion.
Michael Bliss is survived by his beloved wife, Jeannie Bliss, who stood by his side through thick and thin. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership. Michael and Jeannie were the proud parents of three children: Michael Raymond Bliss, who works as a Grower Services Manager at California Citrus Mutual; Kate Marie Bertuccio; and Sullivan Bliss. His children were his pride and joy, and he played an active role in their lives, providing support, guidance, and love.
Michael also leaves behind his sisters, Molly Bliss-Analla and Christine Dougherty, who shared a close bond with him throughout their lives. His two grandchildren, Brantley Cole Bertuccio and Michael Philip Bliss, will grow up with the cherished memories of their grandfather’s love and wisdom.
In addition to his immediate family, Michael Bliss’s extended family and friends have also felt the profound impact of his passing. His warm personality, generosity, and unwavering support endeared him to many. Michael was a man who believed in the power of community and the importance of giving back, values that he instilled in his children and practiced throughout his life.
The visitation for Michael will be held on Monday, August 5, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, located at 13145 Le Grand Rd, Le Grand, CA 95333. This will be followed by a vigil service with rosary from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the same location. These services will offer a time for family, friends, and community members to come together, share their memories, and support one another in their grief.
The funeral mass will take place on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Saint Columba Catholic Church, 213 Orange Ave, Chowchilla, CA 93610. The mass will be a solemn occasion to honor Michael’s life, his faith, and his contributions to the community. Following the mass, the interment will occur from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Plainsburg Cemetery, 8943 Gillette Ave, Merced, CA 95341. This final resting place will be a site of reflection and remembrance for all who loved him.
The loss of Michael Bliss has sent ripples through the community, touching the lives of everyone who knew him. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and community service will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of crossing paths with him. Michael’s life was a testament to the impact one person can have on their family, their community, and their profession.
As the community mourns, there is a collective effort to support Michael’s family during this difficult time. Friends, neighbors, and colleagues have rallied around the Bliss family, offering their condolences, sharing stories of Michael’s impact, and providing practical support. This outpouring of love and solidarity is a testament to the profound connections Michael forged throughout his life.
In the days following his passing, many have taken to social media and community forums to express their grief and share their memories of Michael. One poignant tribute read: “Michael Bliss was more than a colleague; he was a friend and a mentor. His kindness and generosity knew no bounds. He touched so many lives and leaves behind a legacy of love and service. He will be deeply missed.”
Michael’s commitment to community service was evident in his work with the El Nido Natural Resources Conservation Service. His efforts in environmental conservation helped ensure that future generations would enjoy the natural beauty of the region. His passion for preserving the environment was not just a professional duty but a personal calling that he pursued with vigor and dedication.
As a member of the Knights of Columbus, Michael embodied the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. He was involved in numerous charitable activities, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. His faith was a guiding force in his life, influencing his actions and his interactions with others.
Michael’s dedication to his family was paramount. He cherished the time spent with his wife, children, and grandchildren. Family gatherings were filled with laughter, love, and the creation of cherished memories. He was a role model to his children, demonstrating the importance of hard work, integrity, and compassion.
The GoFundMe campaign established to assist the Bliss family with funeral expenses has seen a significant outpouring of support. Contributions have come from far and wide, a testament to the far-reaching impact Michael had on people’s lives. The funds raised will help ease the financial burden on the family, allowing them to focus on healing and remembering the man who meant so much to them.
As the community continues to come to terms with the loss of Michael Bliss, plans are being made to honor his memory in meaningful ways. There are discussions about establishing a scholarship fund in his name, aimed at supporting students who demonstrate the same values of community service and dedication that Michael exemplified. Additionally, community service projects are being organized to continue the work that Michael was passionate about, ensuring that his legacy of giving back lives on.
Michael’s passing has also prompted conversations about the importance of community support systems. The outpouring of love and solidarity has highlighted the strength of the Merced community and its ability to come together in times of need. This collective support has been a source of comfort for the Bliss family, showing them that they are not alone in their grief.
In the coming weeks and months, the community will continue to support the Bliss family, offering a shoulder to lean on and a listening ear. The bonds forged through shared grief will help the family navigate the difficult journey ahead, reminding them of the love and support that surrounds them.
Michael Bliss’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, dedication, and community. His legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him and serve as a reminder of the impact one person can have on the world around them. As the Merced community mourns the loss of a beloved member, they also celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to others.
In conclusion, the passing of Michael Bliss has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the Merced community. His legacy of love, service, and dedication will continue to inspire those who knew him. As the community comes together to support the Bliss family, they honor the memory of a man who touched so many lives and left an indelible mark on the world around him. Michael Bliss may be gone, but his spirit and the impact he had will live on in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
