Bert O'Dell Sharpe

Bert O’Dell “Dell” Sharpe, 79, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, May 21, 2023, at his son’s home in Bedford, NH. He was born on April 4, 1944, in Johnson City, TN, the son of the late Donald E. and Hazel (Nelson) Sharpe.

Dell joined the Navy as a young man and was very proud of his service and the people he served with. There, he gained an interest in aeronautical control systems. He was a staunch advocate of Technical Trades and Education. Having attended technical training school, Dell was a lifelong learner who always had a meter handy to demonstrate his electronics analytical prowess. Dell landed a job working with control systems programs at General Electric (GE) in Lynn, MA and later transferred to Wilmington, MA after moving his family to Newton, NH. He stayed on with the aeronautical and defense department working on electronic components after AMETEK bought the GE programs in the late 1980's. Dell was a strong union man that would enjoy verbally sparring with his son regarding the balance between unions and management. He retired in the early 2000's after the better part of four decades in the industry.

Dell was incredibly active his entire life. He would enjoy time on the golf course, even if he could only play a few holes. He worked out often and enjoyed spending time at the YMCA in Lynn, MA and then became a staple at the YMCA in Haverhill, MA. He would play basketball and enjoyed competing against individuals that were much "bigger or better.” His passion for sports often found him coaching youth sports programs. Teaching fundamentals to young people and watching them develop over the years was a joy. He would often see young adults, some that achieved professional ranks, and pridefully talk of the days he coached or helped "that kid.” And of course, Dell loved the seacoast. He could often be found frequenting the excitement of greyhound and horse racing in Seabrook, NH whether it be live or simulcast. If not Seabrook, he would spend time at Salisbury Beach. Dell would often be observed walking to the beach with his individual cooler with a few beers and a sandwich. Needless to say, he was always willing to share and talk. Dell's extended beach family meant the world to him, and he cared deeply for all of them.

Of course, there could be no tribute or remembrance of Dell without acknowledging his sense of humor. He would often find himself huddled around people storytelling. He would whisper to contribute to the intensity of his story. All participants would draw closer to hear his tale and then he would surprise you with a punchline and you would lament that you fell for his antics again. Dell was a prankster as well and his work colleagues, friends and family would oft fall victim to his shenanigans and see that ever-present gap-toothed smile when he felt he had successfully executed his caper.

Dell was predeceased by his brother, Lowry “Buster” Hall and his sister, Joyce (Hall) Orten. He is survived by his son, Christopher “Chris” Sharpe and daughter, Christina “Tina” Moore. Dell is also remembered by his grandchildren, Bruce, Beth and William “Billy” Moore, as well as Jack, Grace and Hannah Sharpe; and great grandchildren, Christian and Maiah Sanborn followed by Lucus and Jordan Moore. As a "snowbird" Dell had family and friends throughout the east coast. His Tennessee/Georgia family included Jackie Nelson Moor and Joan Nelson Long. Of course, he had great relationships in his adopted winter oasis in Florida.

SERVICES: Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, from 4:00PM – 6:00PM at the Phaneuf Funeral Home, 243 Hanover Street, Manchester, NH 03104. A Celebration of Life Service will immediately follow at 6:00PM. Family and friends are invited to attend.

Those who wish may make a memorial contribution in lieu of flowers to the Holston United Methodist Home for Children, 404 Holston Drive, Greenville, TN 37743 or online.