Vernon Charles Bloch, son of Arthur and Viola Bloch, passed away peacefully on October 8 ^th , 2021, following a brief battle with Lewy Body Dementia.  Vern was born in Hegins, PA as one of eight siblings, and he lived the American dream.  His family was poor, and they occasionally went to bed hungry because they didn't have food.  His ticket out of poverty was a merit-based appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy, from which he graduated in 1959.  It was during his time in Annapolis that he met his soul mate and the love of his life, Helen, to whom he was happily and blissfully married for 62 years.  They loved each other unconditionally, for better and for worse, in sickness and in health, until death did them part.  Vern was 84 years old.

During Vern's 28-year career in the U.S. Navy, he served as pilot of S-2 anti-submarine aircraft during the Cuban missile crisis, Commanding Officer of VS-33 ("the Screwbirds"), Air Boss of the U.S.S. Saratoga, and Deputy Director of the Navy Space Program.  Captain Bloch retired from the Navy in 1987.

Following his Navy career, Vern worked for Northrop-Grumman in Melbourne, FL for 12 years, retiring as Director of Engineering. In addition to his extensive service to our nation's defense, Vern (and Helen) owned and operated the Palm Bay Orchid Range from 1991 to 2004.  Vern was active in the Brevard County Orchid Society, serving as President for many years.  His vast knowledge of orchids and their care, combined with an easy-going, educational style, made him a sought-after speaker at orchid societies throughout the state of Florida; he also spoke at orchid societies in North Carolina and the Hawaiian Islands.

While Vern's professional accomplishments were significant, the most important thing in his life was family.  He treasured all family time, especially the family adventures.  Vern taught his family to work hard and play harder.  The whole family savored the retelling of stories from our many escapades over the decades.  Vern's zest for life could be summarized by the phrase, "Whoever dies with the best stories wins." Vern Bloch won.

He is survived by his loving wife (Helen Bloch), three children (son Jeff and wife Dayna Bloch, daughter Laurie Watson, son Greg and wife Kim Bloch), two grandchildren (Thomas Stearns, Katie Bloch), one great grandchild (Emma Beavers), and one brother (Bob and his wife Christine Bloch).

A public viewing will be held on Friday, October 22 at 1pm at Riviera United Church of Christ, 451 Riviera Dr. NE, Palm Bay FL, followed by a memorial service at 2pm.  Vern will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery on a future date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Salvation Army or the Brevard County Orchid Society.