Gerard Charles Fatscher

Gerard "Jerry" Charles Fatscher, age 94, died at home in Bridge-water on Saturday, October 2, 2010. Born on August 21, 1916 in New York City, Jerry was the son of Charles and Emma Volk Fatscher. Moving to Connecticut, in 1920, Jerry walked three miles, to attend the one room schoolhouse in the Aspetuck section of New Milford. At eight years of age, the Fatscher family moved to Jersey City, N.J., where Jerry attended the Seventh Day Adventist High School in Brooklyn, N.Y. followed by college in the Shenandoah Valley, Va. In his early twenties, Jerry returned to New Milford, and worked on local farms, while attending night school to learn the machine trade. In 1940, Jerry enlisted in the Army, serving for five years during World War II. Jerry served with the 60th Field Artillery Battalion, 9th Division in Africa, Italy, England, France and Germany. Along with numerous service ribbons, Jerry received the Bronze Star with Valor. Following the service to his country, Jerry returned to New Milford once again, where he met and married Ruth Ross. Together, he and Ruth built and enjoyed a home in Bridgewater. Employed by the Scovill Corporation for 30 years, Jerry served as plant engineer. Following retirement from Scovill, Jerry was the estate manager for a large Estate in Bridgewater. Jerry's many interests, included bird hunting and Brittany Spaniels. An avid reader of American history and historical novels, he also called himself, an "amateur horticulturist." A personal note of thanks was left by Jerry, which reads, "Thank you to all our Bridgewater friends, who have been so generous and supportive of Ruth and I through our 59 years in Bridgewater and especially in our later years." Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth. Jerry was proud to be an American and honored to have served his country. He was loved, admired and respected by his numerous friends, all of whom feel that their lives are better, because of Gerard Charles Fatscher. A memorial service, celebrating Jerry's life, will be announced at a later date. Please send donations in Jerry's memory to the Bridgewater Volunteer Fire Department, 100 Main Street Bridgewater, CT 06752. Colonial Funeral Home, 87 Park Lane Rd., New Milford is handling arrangements. Information and on line condolences at HullFuneralService.com.