Gerald E. Gaudet

Jerry Gaudet passed away December 31, 2024 at the age of 98. He was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Bernadette.
He is survived by his children Dave, Ed (Dee), Phil (Penny), Janine (John) Gaube and Nancy. Also survived by his grandchildren Josh, Gerald, Joe, Brinae, Sam and six great-grandchildren.
Gerald was born on the shores of Moosehead Lake in north central Maine. He enlisted in the Navy at the age of 17, where he served in the Pacific during WWII. After his service he went to the Milwaukee School of Engineering where he received a Degree in Refrigeration. He then became a Union Steamfitter and spent 42 years at Johnson Service/Johnson Controls where he was both feared and revered for his knowledge of building mechanical systems, their controls and ability to get things done.
While in Milwaukee, he met Bernadette at a dance at the Eagles Club.
After retiring, Jerry and Bernadette moved to Minocqua where they enjoyed boating, fishing and the Northwoods lifestyle. They purchased a van and travelled across North America. They discovered the joy of wintering in warmer climates, and visiting family and friends. He helped other people with his expertise in building and fixing things. He frequently went to morning mass and made it his way of life.
His expression for goodbye was "Keep Smiling." As he neared the end of his time, he said "I had a good life." He certainly did! He will be missed by all who knew him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00AM on January 16, 2025 at St. Mary Catholic Faith Community in Hales Corners, WI with visitation starting at 9:30AM. A Christian burial will take place on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 11:00AM at St. Adalbert Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of Jerry appreciated to Holy Family Catholic Church (Woodruff), St Mary Catholic Faith Community, or the charity of your choice.