Marcel Brisson

Marcel Rheo Brisson

1939 – 2026

It is with great sadness we announce that Marcel R. Brisson, 87, of Milton, VT passed away peacefully at home on August 6th, 2026 surrounded by his loving family after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease and kidney cancer.

Marcel was born on January 17, 1939 to the late Rheo and Amanda (LeClerc) Brisson. He was a lifelong resident of Milton where he grew up with his brothers and sister, spending many hours working at the family restaurant and pool hall. After high school he proudly enlisted in the US Army where he served in Europe for the following 3 years. He spent most of his time in France and Germany.

Upon his return home in 1960, he began a 40 year career in the M&P Lab at General Electric in Burlington, retiring in 2000. More importantly though, that same year while spending time at his favorite local garage hangout, a beautiful young red head caught his eye. From that moment on, he realized he had met the love of his life, Sally Jean (Marshall) Brisson and on June 30, 1962 (2 weeks after her high school graduation) they became husband and wife and began their 64 year love story.

In addition to his loving wife, Sally Jean, he is survived by his 3 children, Marc Marshall Brisson of Salem, VA, Michael Paul Brisson of Essex and Patrice (Patti) Jean O’Grady (Jim) of Milton. His grandchildren, Jordan O’Grady (Cally Smith), Derryk O’Grady (Krissi), Olivia Brisson-Jones (Brad) and Macs Brisson, both of Salem, VA, who all affectionately referred to him as their Papa. He also adored his 2 great grandsons, Bennett and Jack Brisson, also of Salem, VA.

He is survived by his only sister, Jacqueline (Jackie) Gover of FL/ NC and her 4 children; Daniel Gover of NC, David Gover of GA, Kathy Hutson and Mitch Gover of FL. He is also survived by his nephew Robert Brisson, Jr. of Milton and his niece Robin Cote of MA.

He was predeceased by his younger brother, Armand Brisson, his older brother Robert Brisson, Sr., sister-in-law Beverly Brisson, nephew William Brisson, all of Milton. He was also predeceased by his brother-in-law, George Gover of FL/NC.

Throughout his life, Marcel always had an internal “need for speed!” At an early age he had a fascination with muscle cars and engines. He loved stock, drag and street cars along with motorcycles and snow mobiles (while moonlighting at Roadside Marine) … basically anything he could do to make them FASTER! Many nights were spent in the family garage, at Catamount Stadium and the Milton Drag Strip. During the course of his fascination, he was fortunate enough to cross paths with lifelong friends Bobby and Beaver Dragon, John Keefer and the late Frankie Woodward. These times were some of his most memorable moments and he will be forever grateful. But it must be known, Sally did actually turn a faster trip down the Milton Drag Strip … beating him one time!

Other favorite pastimes included Friday and Saturday nights bowling or playing cards with their dear friends Jeannine and the late Marcel Guillette. Many nights of dancing and hosting parties around the pool were always enjoyed by the family and friends. But his most important pastime was traveling to and watching his children’s and grandson’s various sporting events. He always made time to support and show how proud he was of them. Even during his illness and physically unable to attend in person the last 5 years, he watched his grandson Derryk, assisting coach John Becker with the UVM Men’s Basketball team on TV, never missing a game.

The family would like to thank his caregivers, Cally Smith and Jennifer Marshall, for all the wonderful and loving care that they provided during Dad’s long battle. In addition, we would also like to thank UVM Home Health and Hospice Care, particularly Keynesha, Kaitlyn and Brett.

Visiting hours will be held Friday August 14th, 2026 at Minor Funeral and Cremation center from 5:00PM- 7:00PM. Funeral Mass will be held Saturday August 15th, 2026 at 11:30AM at St. Ann Church in Milton, followed immediately by a graveside service in St. Ann Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Marcel's name to the Parkinson's Association.