Wilton - John D. Biss, a lifelong resident of Wilton, passed away peacefully with family by his side at Saratoga Hospital, on Thursday (Nov. 6, 2008) He was 88 years young. John, also known to many as "Uncle John", was born on Nov. 20, 1919, was a lifelong dedicated US Air Force veteran. During his enlistment, he spent three years as a POW in an internment camp located in the Philippine Islands. He retired in 1962 as Master Sergeant. He was a flight engineer aboard the B-17 "flying fortress", a radio operator/repairer, an airline/engine mechanic and obtained a private pilot's license. John had many commendations for his military service such as the Philippine Republic Presidential Unit Citation, Award for Safety in Military Aviation, Outstanding student specialized in Airplane and Engine Mechanic School B-29, Air Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Service Medal, Philippines Defense Ribbon, American Defense Service Medal, American Service Medal, Distinguished Unit Badge w/2 oak leaf clusters, Good Conduct Medal, WW Two Victory Medal (Project J) and 1998 NRA Defender of 2nd Amendment Award. Some of his many achievements were Million Miler Certificate, Aircraft Maintenance Officer (Gunter AFB, Alabama), Radio Communications Operator (Fort Monmouth, NJ), Radio Repairer and Operator (Air Corps Technical School), Airplane and Engine Mechanic (Keesler Field, Miss.) Flight Engineer - C97 Type Aircraft (Kelly AFB, TX), Flight Engineer/Analyzer C-124 (McChord AFB, Washington/Palm Beach AFB, FL) and he was also a life member of the National Rifle Assoc. During his retirement, he worked for many years alongside his brother, Steve, as a parts manager at Scott's Auto Sales. John was a book of knowledge when it came to economics, geography, mechanics and finances. He also enjoyed the challenge of a good crossword puzzle and quickly answered many Jeopardy questions. He was the eldest of the late John and Helen (Oshiftian) Biss. His passing completes a generation that is now in our loving Lord's arms. He is also predeceased by his sister, Julia H. Biss; two brothers, Steven and Michael R. Biss and one nephew, Robert M. Biss. John is survived by four nephews and one niece. Many thanks go to the very professional staff at Saratoga Hospital. The doctors, nurses and administration show extreme care, compassion and tenderness. We are truly blessed to have such a wonderful hospital in our midst. Relatives and friends may call from 9:30 to 11:30am Monday (Nov. 10, 2008) at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing & Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway (584-5373), followed by a prayer service at 11:30am. Burial with military honors will be at 12:30pm Monday at the Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Duell Rd., Schuylerville. To honor Uncle John and his service to our country, in lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Gurtler Bros. Post 420 VFW, Veterans Way or to Saratoga Hospital Foundation, 211 Church St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.