WILTON – Eugene Homer Ploof, 82, of Lake Road, Wilton, died Tuesday, May 8, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born Aug. 13, 1924, in Barre, Vt., a son of Wesley J. and Belzemia (Boulris) Ploof. He was an Army veteran, having served during World War II in the Battle of the Bulge and the Campaign of Ardennes. He later earned his BA and his MA in music education at the New England Conservatory, Boston, and married the former Margaret M. Grubb.

He and his wife lived in Rochester, N.H., and Berwick, before retiring to Wilton six years ago. He originated the instrumental and vocal music program for the Berwick area schools, K-12 in 1951, giving the gift of music to thousands of children for 28 years.

In 1957, he was named to the National Music Fraternity Pi Kappa Lambda. He and his wife enjoyed their membership in the Friendship Squares Square Dance Club of Wilton and the Wilton Historical Society. He was also a member of the Franklin County Retired Teachers Association.

He was known for his sense of humor, his love of dogs and had a passion for good food. He took great pride and pleasure in his family and is loved dearly by his grandsons, who affectionately refer to him as “Bubba.”

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Margaret M. Ploof of Wilton; two daughters, Katherine J. Ploof, and her partner, Samuel Hazell, of Orlando, Fla. and Lynn Ploof-Davis, and her husband, Stephen Davis, of Wilton; one brother, Elwin Ploof, and his wife, Irene, of Zephyrhills, Fla.; one sister, Marion O’Brien of West Brookfield, Mass.; two grandsons, Eli J. Davis and Zachary P. Davis, both of Wilton; and many nieces and nephews.