Services Set For Beloved Longtime Scoutmaster

CENTER MORICHES, NY— Hearts were broken in Center Moriches this week as word spread that Louis "Mr. V." Vlismas passed away on Jan. 14.

Mr. Vlismas was the long-time Scoutmaster, committee member and advancement chairman for Troop 414 in Center Moriches. He was a beloved husband — he and his wife Dolores built a life together over 54 years rich in love — and father, as well as a friend to the many who shared memories of his dedication to the Scouts whose lives he helped to shape.

Services have been set and are as follows: Visitation will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 27 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Moloney-Sinnicksons Funeral Home, located at 203 Main Street in Center Moriches. A funeral mass will be held at St. John the Evangelist, located at 25 Ocean Ave. in Center Moriches, on Thursday, Jan. 28 at 9:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Mount Pleasant Cemetery.

The many who loved him remembered a man who leaves a long legacy in the lessons he imparted to countless Scouts. Many mentioned the many days he spent devoting his time to helping Scouts with merit badges and the rich memories made at summer camp and at other Scouting events.

"My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Vlismas family," Bill Cahill wrote on the Moloney-Sinnicksons tribute page. "I can't even begin to tell you what Mr. V. meant to me growing up. He was always someone we, as Scouts, wanted to make proud. No one can ever talk about Troop 414 without thinking of Mr. V. Some day we will meet again and I'll bring the bug juice! Until then, love and miss you Poppa V."

"Our thoughts go out his wife Dolores and the family," George and Terry Keller wrote. "Lou was a great friend to me and a mentor to many boys in Scouting, helping to turn them into fine young men. He will forever be missed."

The Guastella family added: "We are saddened to hear of the passing of our beloved Mr. V. He was a pillar in our Boys Scout Troop 414. He will be missed by many in the Scouting community. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Dolores and the boys at this time."

And, said a couple who only gave their first names, Sue and Mickey: "Lou was a kind and generous man. The world lost one of its greats with Lou's passing. Our love and prayers are with you, Dolores, and the boys."

Baiting Hollow Scout Camp posted a message on its Facebook page: "It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Lou Vlismas. In addition to years of service to his troop Lou was instrumental in the success of our winter and spring camp programs. He worked with hundreds of scouts on merit badges during those programs and made a positive impact on the lives of so many. We ask everyone to keep Lou and his family in your thoughts and prayers."

Allen Schneider, Scoutmaster of Troop 484 in Hampton Bays, also remembered a man who touched countless lives: "Lou, almost always smiling while he was working with Scouts on merit badges. May you rest in peace, Lou. You will be missed by all who knew you."

A full tribute will follow. If you would like to share your memories of Mr. V., send them to Lisa.Finn@patch.com.