In Memoriam: Red Bank Resident, Former Fireman, Ass’t Attorney General, Dennis Bliss, 82

Red Bank resident Dennis Leslie Bliss passed away peacefully on Feb. 14, “after a lengthy and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.” He was 82.

“Dennis was a fiercely loving and extraordinarily kind-hearted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend to many … Dennis was a diehard NY Giants and Yankees fan and avid golfer. He loved the Jersey Shore and looked forward to summer days spent surf fishing and relaxing at the Deal Casino Beach Club. In other seasons, he doted on his extensive garden and vintage Lionel train set. For over 10 years, he was a proud ‘stage crew Dad’ for his daughter’s many Nutcracker performances and adored watching her from the wings. Dennis’ warmth and generosity radiated and his quick wit was legendary. He will be deeply missed by all who were privileged to be in his orbit.”
Loved ones of Dennis Bliss in his obituary

He graduated from Asbury Park High School and Rutgers University with a degree in history before earning his J.D. from Indiana University in 1967.

Dennis had an illustrious career and devoted his life to public service. In his younger years, he was a lifeguard at Asbury Park Beach and a volunteer firefighter for Middletown Township. He worked for the Administrative Office of the Courts for 34 years and rose to the position of assistant attorney general, serving as director of Municipal Court Services for the State of New Jersey. Dennis was especially proud of his military service and retired from the NJ National Guard as a JAG colonel in 2003 after 27 years.

Dennis is predeceased by: his mother, father, stepfather, and dear brother, John K. Bliss.

He is survived by: his devoted wife of 55 years, Carolyn Bliss; daughter Corey Bliss and son-in-law Michael Berberich, of Brooklyn, NY; sister-in-law, Patricia Bliss, Deal; brother- and sister-in-law Frank & Kathryn Moss, Washington, D.C.; nephews, Jonathan Moss (wife Nani), Andrew Moss, and Kevin Moss; and loyal dog and best friend, Baxter Bliss.

There will be a celebration of Dennis’ beautiful life in the spring of 2024 in Monmouth County. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his everlasting memory to the Middletown Township Fire Department, PO Box 4009, Middletown, NJ 07748.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via John E. Day Funeral Home