Gerald R. "Gerry" Audette, 84, of Dartmouth died Sunday March 16, 2014 at St. Anne's Hospital after a brief illness.
Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Albert L. and Antoinette (Godbout) Audette, he lived in Dartmouth most of his life. He wintered in Florida for many years.
Mr. Audette was a foreign car specialist who owned and operated Gerry's Garage in New Bedford.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, and was a recipient of the Korean Service medal, the Purple Heart medal, the Bronze Star medal, the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation, and the Combat Infantry Badge.
Mr. Audette was a member of the Foreign Car Club, the American Legion, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and the Moose Lodge. He was a boating enthusiast. His distinct laughter notified people of his presence.
Survivors include his brother, Joseph A. Audette of Dartmouth; his sister, Marcelle Chartier and her husband Norman of New Bedford; his close nephew, Roger Chartier, and many other nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his lifelong companion Robert "Bob" Surprenant, and his brothers Jean Paul Audette and Bernard C. Audette.
His Funeral Service will be held on Thursday at 7 PM in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, with visiting hours from 4-7 PM, prior to the Service. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to Community Nurse and Hospice Care, P.O. Box 751, Fairhaven, MA 02719. A private family burial service with military honors will be in the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.