Gérard Ouellette, 77, of Moncton, passed away on Wednesday March 30, 2022 at the Villa du Repos.
Known as dad, pépère, Gerry, and mononcle bateau. Husband and best friend of Peggy Ouellette, Gérard said that a flash of lightning had struck him between the two eyes (Boom!!) when he met her. After 42 years of marriage, the two were still laughing and having fun, and planning what they were going to do if they hit the jackpot. After first meeting a Gérard with the long hair, sideburns and big mustache, Peggy told her mother she was going to marry him, even though he was a "Canayen".
Adored father of Courtney, Julie and Kelly, he taught them that love, tenderness and tenacity would lead far in life. He showed them that you can be strong and gentle at the same time. He also showed them the importance of hard work and education in order to succeed.
He was a champion in spelling and multiplication practice. Also in how to chew spruce gum. He loved dancing his jig and Johnny Cash, and thought he could play the fiddle and the harmonica. He liked to laugh and make others laugh, and could tell the same joke three times a day. He gave almost 40 years of his life, and two fingertips, to the Begin Mill in Clair, later Irving Mill, and was proud of his work.
Precious grandpa of Trey, Gavin, Elvis and Léo, with whom he played, laughed, and jumped on trampolines. He always had a deep connection with children, nearly passed out when his first daughter was born, and was so happy to be a grandfather. Beloved father-in-law of Glen, Jean-François and Lance, who each had to demonstrate that they were worthy of marrying each of his daughters.
Spoiled brother of Yvette, Germaine, Georgette (Roland), Jeanne d'Arc, Fernande (Gérard), Roland (Sharon) and Annette; he succeeded in making his fudge one time out of three, but his "bines" all the time. If Gérard was on the phone with his brother or sisters, they would talk for hours. He also leaves to mourn several nephews and nieces, for whom he acted as godfather or mentor, and whom he loved as his own children. He taught Maurice how to cheat at cards, and Jessy how to fish for small trout.
Many people from Clair, St-François and the surrounding area will have fond memories of Gérard, who was a firefighter, Knight of Columbus, broomball player, communion server at mass, and baptism preparation guide.
He was predeceased by his parents Alfred and Ida (Chassé), his sisters Rolande and Florence, and his brother Aurèle.
In accordance to his wishes, there will be no visitation and no funeral service. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donation to the Alzheimer Society in his memory. The family also encourages surprising someone by pinching their waist, just to get a laugh. "Bonjour, bonsoir, les bines sont deboutes?" Yes dad, les bines sont deboutes. Love you.
Funeral arrangements are in the professional care of Frenette Funeral and Cremation Centre, Moncton (858-1900).
Words of comfort and donations may be made at www.frenettefuneralhome.com