Gerard A. Handley

Gerard Arthur Handley, a lifetime resident of Hooksett, NH passed away peacefully on 2/21/2016 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, NH with his loving family by his side. He was born on July 11, 1940 to Emile A. and Marcelle Handley. Gerry was a successful Realtor and home builder. He enjoyed wintering in Naples, FL and spending time with his grandchildren. He was a practical joker who liked making people laugh and his favorite holiday was April Fools' Day. Gerry is predeceased by his daughter Gail Ann Boyan. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Carmel Berger Handley, his sister Claire & Raymond Wheeler, his children and their spouses, Gary A. Handley & Yvonne Handley, Alan A. Handley & Cynthia Handley, Lori Ann Paquette & Michael L. Paquette(fv). He was affectionately known as "Pa" by his 10 grandchildren, Jeremy, Joshua, Jaime, Patrick, Sean, Kevin, Bryan, Korynne, Gerid and Derik, many nieces, nephews and cousins. He also has two great-grandchildren on the way. Gerard will be remembered for his many accomplishments including: NH Realtor of the Year, Director of the State Board of Realtors, President of the Greater Manchester Board of Realtors, Hooksett Citizen of the Year, Town Councilor, School Board Member, Budget Committee, Health Officer, Chamber of Commerce Businessman of the Year, 8 years NH Army National Guard – Honorable Discharge, Dedicated Husband, Father and Grandfather. Gerry had a way of making people around him want to be better than they otherwise would be. He was a humble, loving and generous man committed to his family and community. He was and always will be a Hero to us all. We Love You Pa!!! A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Saturday, February 27, 2016 at St. Catherine of Siena Church, corner of Hemlock and Webster Streets. Committal prayers with military honors followed in the mausoleum at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Manchester. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to The Shriner's Hospital for Children, 51 Blossom St, Boston, MA 02114, Precious Blood Monastery, 700 Bridge St, Manchester, NH 03104, or to the Community Hospice House, 210 Naticook Rd, Merrimack, NH 03054.