Bernard "Bernie" Vaughn Dill

Bernard Vaughn "Bernie" Dill, 79, of Leominster, formerly of Gardner, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026, at Casa de Ramana Rehabilitation Center in Framingham, Massachusetts, surrounded by his loving family. He will be remembered for his deep love of family, loyal friendships, proud service to his country, and the smile that could brighten any room.

Born in Gardner, Massachusetts, on June 6, 1947, Bernie was the son of the late Milton and Lillian Dill. A proud member of Gardner High School's Class of 1966, he went on to serve honorably in the United States Coast Guard doing a tour of duty in the Vietnam War aboard the USS Barataria. After returning home, he continued his service on the Cape George search and rescue vessel, forming lifelong friendships along the way.

Bernie enjoyed a long career with Digital Equipment Corporation and was known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and genuine kindness. For more than 30 years, he officiated youth hockey games through the Massachusetts Hockey Association, combining his love of sports with his commitment to the community.

He found joy in the simple pleasures of life: golfing with friends, spending time at Wells Beach, Cape Cod, and Longboat Key, and gathering at the Polish American Citizens Club and the Napoleon Club in Gardner. A devoted New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox fan, Bernie rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams.

In recent years, Bernie especially enjoyed attending Hillside Adult Day Health and the Vet-to-Vet Café, where he valued companionship and sense of community he found there, particularly with his dear friend, Allyson.

Above all, Bernie treasured his family. Nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, and friends. Whether celebrating holidays, sharing meals, or cheering on his grandchildren, he took immense pride in those he loved.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 21 years, Mindy Parent; his brother, Stanley Dill and wife Judi of Gardner; his daughters, Kristen M. Dill of Tampa, Florida, Julie A. Kenyon of St. Pete Beach, Florida, Amy C. Blair and husband Philip of Berlin, Massachusetts, and Lisa A. Landers and husband Luke of Maynard, Massachusetts. He was a proud grandfather to Ryan Kenyon, Emily Blair, Ava Blair, Jack Landers, and Vivian Landers, who brought him endless joy.

He is also survived by his nephews, Scott Dill and wife Heidi, and David Dill and wife Gail; many cherished beloved cousins.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Amada Senior Care, Mari and Osei, and to dear friend Renay Blair for the compassion, dignity, and exceptional care they provided to Bernie and his family.

Bernie's legacy is one of love, loyalty, service, and generosity. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bernie's life on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon, Massachusetts, where he will be laid to rest with full military honors. Interment will be private and at later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the https://www.alz.org/ or https://www.veterans-outreach.org/donate/ in Bernie’s memory.