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Gilbert Surette Obituary
A celebration of life service will take place in early January. A special thank you to the Vitas nurses in both Flagler and St. Augustine.
Gil was born Dec. 24, 1925, in Lynn, Massachusetts, to Gilbert A. and Grace M. Surette. He graduated in 1943 from Lynn English High School where he played saxophone in the high school band and was the drum major his senior year. He was drafted into the Army in February, 1944. A World War II vet, he served in Nuremberg, Germany. A talented musician, he was selected for a show band that played for several USO shows before touring southern Germany and Salzburg, Austria with the Rockettes to entertain the troops. The band was led by Dave Brubeck who went on to become a jazz icon and lifelong friend.
Gil was discharged in 1946 and graduated from Franklin Technical Institute in Boston. He went to work for the Massachusetts highway department while attending night classes at Northeastern University where he received a bachelor's of science in civil engineering and management. He had a passion for flying and obtained his commercial and instrument rating as a pilot. This led to a very successful 30-year career as an airport development and safety inspector with the FAA.
Gil continued playing saxophone with several local bands and after retirement moved to Palm Coast. He was co-founder and leader of the Palm Coast 14-piece swing band for 18 years. He also formed the popular Boston Connection four-piece swing/jazz/dixie group that played at Panama Hattie's in St Augustine Beach for 16 years.
Gil is survived by his wife, Virginia of Littleton, Mass.; daughter, Debbie Ryan and her husband, Peter, of Westford, MA; and two grandsons, Jack and Kyle. He was preceded in death by his parents and his dearly loved daughter, Diane.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gilbert Surette
5 Entries
Santa Nestor
December 13, 2017
I was so sorry to hear of Gil's passing. Gil played for many years with Tom Meade in their band at the Porthole Pub and many other venues. Their friendship goes back to high school. We shared many hours together and Tom and I kept in touch with him in Florida as well as visiting with him there.
I spoke with him not long ago and he seemed to be happy with his move to St Augustine. I will miss his phone calls. My sincere condolences to your mom and your family.
Debbie
December 7, 2017
I was so blessed to get the opportunity to know you Gil
Betty (Surette) Briscoe
December 7, 2017
We knew him as "Junior" . He was a dear cousin very close to us as children. He took me up in his plane on a few occasions which was so thrilling. His talent took him away into the limelight of entertainment. He will always be remembered as a
Special Cousin. May Gil Rest In Peace.
November 30, 2017
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November 29, 2017
Please accept our condolences on the loss of your loved one. May you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Psalms 119:76*
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