Gerald passed away surrounded by the love of his family at Soldiers Memorial Hospital in Orillia on Friday August 30, 2019 at the age 78. Beloved Husband of 56 years to Kathryn (nee Gauthier). Loving father to Gilles Bessette (Daina), Rodney Bessette, Alan Bessette (Tobi) and Lianne Bettiol (Steve Byers). Cherished grandfather to Tyler, Todd, Cassidy, Joshua, Jonathan and great-grandfather to Russell, Sophia, Owen and Robert. Gerald was predeceased by his parents Francis and Beatrice (nee Laferriere) Bessette, his son-in-law Robert Bettiol, his sister Monique and brothers Ron (Maria-deceased), Andy (Anita-deceased), and his sister-in-law Simone. Gerald is survived by his brothers Bernie (Bev), Rodrigue, Richard (Theresa), Roger (Heather-deceased), Edmond (Debbie), Denis, Mike (Judy) and Gilbert (Lynn). He will be forever cherished by his many nieces, nephews, extended family and his many friends. The family will receive visitors at the McGuinty Funeral Home (North Bay) on Thursday September 5, 2019 from 2pm to 5pm and 7pm to 9pm. A Mass will be celebrated at Paroisse St Thomas d’Aquin in Astorville on Friday September 6, 2019 at 11am. Interment will follow at St Thomas d’Aquin Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the North Bay Regional Health Centre Foundation, or to the Parish of St Thomas d’Aquin. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all the doctors, nurses, caregivers, friends, family and neighbours for all the care and compassion over the years.
