Joseph Austin Ferris, 96, went to join his beloved wife Betty on September 25, 2025. He was a resident of Bristol, VT for 65 years. Joe was born May 29, 1929 to Cora and Dan Austin in Middlebury, VT. He was adopted by his cousins, Dan and Cyrena Ferris shortly after.

Joe was raised on the family farm on Munger street in New Haven.  He worked the farm as well as working for other farms in the area until 1960. Dairy farming and growing asparagus were his love. He is predeceased by his brother Dan Austin and his sister Marion Pickney.

He married Betty Trudeau, the love of his life, on May 28, 1960. In August of 1969 they adopted their only daughter, Amanda. He is survived by his daughter and his grandchildren:  Austin Dickerson (Bristol), Adrian Dickerson (Haley) (Burlington), Danny Dickerson (Middlebury) and Ryan Dickerson (Bristol). They will miss him, especially his cheeseburgers!

Joe was devoted to caring for and supporting his family. He worked as a machine shop foreman at Simmons Precision, at Johnson’s lumber mill,as well as many other jobs throughout the years. He was especially gifted at small engine repair and kept many mowers going in his day. He retired after 20 years as a custodian at Mt. Abraham Union High School. During retirement he worked at most of the schools in the district as a substitute custodian.

Joe was raised as a Master Mason on 11/27/65.  He joined the Order of the Eastern Star shortly after. He was devoted to his community and could be seen at many masonic functions serving his community.  He was one of the founding members of the Senior meals at the Masonic Lodge and took pride in serving others.  He became a member of Cairo Temple Shriners, Rutland.  He joined the Mini Monster unit and spent many years in his little white Jeep entertaining kids and crowds during the yearly parades.

Joe lived a long and fulfilling life surrounded by a family that loved him and a community he served. He will be missed but his contributions will live on.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 4, 2025 at 11am at the Masonic Lodge in Bristol Vermont. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his name to Libanus 47 Masonic Lodge, Bristol, VT.