Bertrand David Brais

Bertrand David Brais, 75, of North Smithfield, passed away peacefully at Landmark Medical Center on Sunday, October 13 after a brief illness. He was surrounded by his loving family.
Bert will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him. He was the kindest, most loving, generous, hardworking man you've ever met. If you were lucky enough to have known him, you'd know that there is nothing he wouldn't do for you.
Bert left his mark as a teacher, mentor and boss to so many in the construction field. He began his career teaching woodshop at Attleboro High School. He went on to become a professor at New England Institute of Technology in their construction department.
Simultaneous to teaching, Bert began building his construction business with his brother Paul Brais. They were so successful that they both quit their teaching careers and pursued Woodcrafters, Ltd. fulltime in 1984. They built houses from Newton, MA to Narragansett, RI, and everywhere in between. The business evolved into commercial construction and transitioned to B. D. Brais Associates several years later.
When Bert wasn't building something he was playing! Work hard...play hard! He was a man of many hobbies! In no particular order.He: golfed, cycled, paddled, snow boarded, parachuted, hunted, camped, fished, wind surfed, rollerbladed, played tennis, and swam. Additionally, he loved the annual tradition of competing in the Greenway Challenge with his friends and family.
As if all this isn't enough, Bert spent 10 years serving his country in the Army National Guard, where he was Airbornne in the Green Beret as a Sergeant. He spent many days jumping out of planes and loved every minute of it.
Bert attended St. Raphael Academy in Pawtucket, RI, then went on to complete coursework at RISD. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Education at Rhode Island College.
Bert is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Mary Lou Brais, his adoring daughter, Jennifer Jasper and her husband Daryl, his three beloved grandchildren, Alex Teguis, Jordan Teguis, and Mia Jasper. He also leaves behind his brother and best friend, Paul Brais.
A Visitation will be held Friday, October 18, 2024 from 3-6pm with a Service at 6pm in the Tucker-Quinn Funeral Chapel, 643 Putnam Pike, Greenville.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Move To Heal, 45 NE Industrial Road, Branford, CT 06405 would be apricated.