Adrien and Blanche (DuBois) Coderre's love story was evident as they peacefully parted, surrounded by family, within six days of each other. Always side by side, in life and death.
Born in New Bedford, Adrien was the son of the late Elzear and Ida (Dextraze) Coderre, and he lived in New Bedford all of his life.
He was formerly employed by New Bedford Gear and Chamberlain Manufacturing until retirement. He served in the Navy during World War II.
Blanche was born in New Bedford, the daughter of the late George E. and Marie L. (Caron) Dubois, and also lived in New Bedford all of her life.
She was formerly employed as a legal secretary at New Bedford Superior Court and at the Harbor Development Commission.
It was in the late 1940's when Blanche spotted Adrien, looking very handsome in his Navy uniform. That meeting led to marriage, and they were inseparable for 73 years. Their early days were filled with friends and family, dancing at Lincoln Park, afternoons at Brooklawn Creamery and coffee frappes at Frates. They were a presence on the tennis courts, where Adrien's serves were as quick as his comebacks and witty remarks. Wherever he was, laughter was sure to follow.
They worked long hours, but family was their main priority. They were role models of parenting, always transforming simple joys into unforgettable memories for their kids. Eventually, their grandchildren and great grandchildren became their world. They went from traveling cross country, to winters in Florida, to being proud military parents and grandparents. At golf tournaments, swim meets, basketball, baseball, gymnastics, soccer, surfing and wrestling… you could always count on Mem and Pep cheering you on!
They flourished for 15 years living at Whaler's Place, socializing with their friends at parties and bingo, and always being known as the team to beat at pool. They were unforgettable in every way, greeting you with broad smiles and coordinated outfits.
We were all blessed that Mom and Dad lived with family in their last year. As their days became more challenging, Southcoast VNA Hospice partnered with us in our journey. We cannot express enough gratitude to our devoted team of caregivers and chaplains, for their profound kindness and compassion. With full hearts, we also thank their friends Donna and Shirley, for being there with them until the end. Daisy, their favorite little pup, provided comfort and kisses every day.
They are survived by their two loving daughters, Claudette Coderre of Buzzards Bay along with Jeanne Motyl and her husband Edward Motyl of New Bedford. They were predeceased by their beloved son, Paul Coderre of Oceanside, CA and Bob Coderre. Blanche's sister, Terry Lynam, resides in California; seven grandchildren, Michael Coderre, Matthew, Aubree and Candace Coderre, Jillian (Motyl) Ouellette and her husband Sean Ouellette, Katelyn (Motyl) White and her husband William White, Lauren Motyl and her partner Donna Brown; eight great grandchildren: Kai, Koa and Fynley Ouellette, Avery, Harrison and Fiona White, Laila Coderre, and Blossom Coderre.
Blanche and Adrien's Funeral will be held on Wednesday, April 12th at 10 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by their Funeral Mass at Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church at 11 AM. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday, April 11th from 4-7 PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to: South Coast VNA/ Hospice, 200 Mill Road, Suite 103, Fairhaven, MA 02719 www.southcoast.org/VNA or Veterans Transition House, 1297 Purchase Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 Vetshouse.org.