Harland D. Zeno, “Pete,” passed away peacefully on July 27 at the age of 95. He was born to Fredrick and Sadie Zeno in Monkton, Vt., on April 10, 1925.

He was predeceased by several siblings and is survived by his half-sister, May Hnath, and half-brother, Freddy Zeno. He leaves behind four sons, Harland, Jr, Peter, Michael, and Timothy; along with two daughters, Sherry Zeno and Stacey Zeno. Harland also leaves behind seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Harland worked for 41 years at Fairfield Hills Hospital as a maintenance worker and was the Assistant Superintendent of Maintenance when he retired in 1989. However, you really couldn’t say that he was retired. He poured himself into his home and property without skipping a beat. At the age of 70, Harland rebuilt his entire front and back stone walls, which totaled over 400 feet long. He was forever patient with his work and his children. He was never quick to anger and was always very pensive before giving advice or looking for solutions to things. Harland loved to work with his hands, as well as his mind. He was always trying to figure out ways on how to solve problems when fixing things around the house or at work. His hands were rarely idle. Plus, you could always find scraps of paper or old envelopes with some kind of drawing or mathematical figures scribbled on them all around his house.

Harland had many hobbies, as well. He loved to train with weights and did so his entire life. It gave him great pleasure and helped him to live a long life. He also kept up with the stock markets and would always listen or watch the reports on the daily happenings. He loved to play and watch tennis in his later years. He was an avid reader and the Bible was his bread and butter, which he read almost daily. He was a devout Christian and he enjoyed sharing his love of Christ with the people he met when he was out at appointments or gatherings. It was his faith that eased his mind, and he said not to cry for him when he passed, because he knew where he was going. However, rivers have been flowing.

Though he only had a high school diploma, you wouldn’t know it. Harland kept up with current and world events on any topic — be it social, economic, religious, or political. His knowledge base would put any academic to shame. He was well spoken and always seemed to be right about things, much to his children’s chagrin. Harland was always concerned about his children and would always put their needs first. He was selfless, kind, caring, proud, and hardworking. He loved all his children and was proud of each and every one of them. Harland’s passing has left a big hole in the hearts of all those that knew and loved him, especially his children. They will miss his humming and singing as he had gone about his day, even when it was a Christmas song in the middle of the summer. Just being in his presence made you feel safe, loved, and at peace. He was a one-of-a-kind person with strong views and opinions that you respected, even if you didn’t necessarily agree with him.

Finally, Harland will forever be known for his youthful appearance. Even in his final days the nurses couldn’t believe that he was 95 years old. Everywhere he went he would get the same response, “You don’t look your age.” He was very proud of this fact, but never boastful as he was a very modest man.

Thank you, dad, for all of the love and support you gave us children. You’ll forever be in our hearts and minds. We love you. Until we meet again.

Munson Lovetere Funeral Home assisted the family. To leave an online condolence, please visit munsonloveterefuneralhome.com.