Henry C. Bird, 89

It is with sadness that we announce the death of Henry Charles Bird, 89, following declining health. He was a resident of Taylor Continuing Care Community in Laconia.

Henry was born in Plymouth, Oct. 10, 1936, the son of Louise Bird. He grew up in Plymouth, living with his mother and grandparents, James and Lena Bird. Henry attended Plymouth schools, graduating in 1954. Following graduation, Henry enlisted in the United States Air Force where he trained as a radar and computer specialist in B-47s. His permanent assignment was at SAC bases in Kansas. In 1956, he married classmate Nancy L. Keniston, of Plymouth. After eight years with the Air Force, the family, which included three children, returned to live in New Hampshire.

In 1963, Henry joined the New Hampshire State Police, assigned to Troop F in Twin Mountain. During his time with the Department of Safety, he was chosen to be one of the first K-9 handlers. Henry, also served on the security detail for Gov. Meldrim Thomson and concluded his state service as director of police standards and training, serving a total of 35 years in state law enforcement. Henry, finished his career as chief of security at Plymouth State College (University) for 13 years.

He was active in the community, serving as a selectman from 1983 to 1989. He was a member of the Plymouth Congregational Church (UCC) where he served on many boards and committees over the years. He was a devoted husband and father, and a loving grandfather to his 13 grandchildren and eight great- grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Nancy; daughter Sharon Weyers and her husband Patrick of Selbyville, Delaware; four sons, Steven L. Bird and wife Lori of Dover, Scott L. Bird and wife Wendy of St. Simons Island, Georgia, Sheldon L. Bird and wife Marnie of Plymouth, and Shawn L. Bird and wife Atieno of Crozet, Virginia.

A graveyard service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 3, at Riverside Cemetery, Fairgrounds Road, Plymouth.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Sunshine Fund at Taylor Community, 435 Union Ave., Laconia, NH 03246, or a charity of your choice.

Assisting the family with arrangements is the Cremation Society of NH, Boscawen. To view Henry’s online tribute, send condolences to the family, or for more information, visit csnh.com.