Born in Marysville, New Brunswick, the son of Charles Bird, he started working with his father in the construction industry after finishing high school. During World War II, he worked with the Saint John Drydock and Shipbuilding Company converting ships to be used in the war.
He was born in Marysville, New Brunswick, to Charles Bird. After completing high school, he began working with his father in construction. During World War II, he worked at the Saint John Drydock and Shipbuilding Company, converting vessels for military service.