Mr. Bernard R. Mara

Bernard R. Mara, 87, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and love for his family. Born on April 18, 1939, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, he was the son of Margaret (Callaghan) Mara and Bernard Mara. He attended Pittsfield High School, Class of 1957. Bernie began his career with the Coca-Cola Bottling Company, where he worked throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Following the closure of Coca-Cola operations in Pittsfield, he joined several former colleagues in launching Marcon Distributors. He later worked as a driver for Kelly Dietrich Distributors until 1991. Bernie then served Berkshire County as a member of the maintenance department at the Berkshire County Courthouse until his retirement. During his career, he also worked for the County Commissioners, leading a crew in the Clean Lakes Program. Bernie will be lovingly remembered by his life companion of 45 years, Sharon Paris and her sons John and Michael Paris; his daughters, Ellen Snyder of Dalton and Traci Mara of Adams; his son, Bernie Mara (Susan) of Cocoa Beach, Florida; his sister, Margaret Mary Harris (Greg) of Arizona; his sister-in-law, Elena Mara; and his brother-in-law, Clark Gable of Pittsfield. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members, all of whom held a special place in his heart. In addition to his parents, Bernie was predeceased by his brother, William Mara; his sisters, Jane Gable and Jacquiline "Jackie" O'Gara; his son-in-law, Gary Snyder; and his infant grandson, Brandon Snyder. Bernie will be remembered for his strong work ethic, and the love he shared with his family and friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Funeral Notice: Funeral services for Bernard will be Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 1pm at the Dwyer Funeral Home, 776 North Street, Pittsfield MA 01201. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Calling hours at the funeral home will be directly prior to the service, from 11am to 1pm. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in care of the Dwyer Funeral Home.

Mr. Bernard R. Mara

April 18, 1939 - September 10, 2026