Gerard J. Parenteau

Gerard J. Parenteau 82, a longtime resident of Franklin died on January 10, 2016 following a short period of failing health. Gerard was born January 10, 1934 in St. Celestin, Canada, son of Ovila and Alice (Beaupre) Parenteau. He and his family moved from their family farm to Drummondville, Quebec Canada and in 1948 moved to Franklin, which he called home. He was the last of nine children, attended Franklin Schools and loved to play baseball and basketball. For many years he was employed with the former Hebert Foundry in Franklin and served in the U.S. Army. Following his discharge he returned to Hebert Foundry and became a Naturalized Citizen in 1958. Gerard then was employed with the former Rego Shell Station in West Franklin for 12 years. He became owner of the station for the next 14 years. He was best known as Frenchy or Flat Top and people loved to stop by Parenteau�s Shell Station not just for gasoline, but a cup of coffee, good conversation and Gerard�s famous jokes. He was last employed with the former Polyclad Laminates and retired at the age of 65. Gerard was proud of his Canadian heritage. He loved to talk to people and share stories of his fond memories of the Franklin community, his friends, and especially his family, which meant everything to him. He was a parishioner of St. Pauls Church in Franklin and was an avid sports fan, especially hockey. He loved the game of golf and was a member for many years at the Mojalaki Country Club in Franklin. One of his fondest memories was his Hole-In-One at Den Brae Golf Course in 1970. Gerard was predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Lorraine R. (Belanger) Parenteau who died in 2014. He leaves two daughters, Lisa LaPage and her husband Robert of Bedford, Renee Sylvester and her husband Danny of Franklin, grandchildren Derrick and Dillon Sylvester, Robert Jr. and Jonathan LaPage, great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Following Gerard�s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A private graveside service will be held in the spring with military honors at Holy Cross Cemetery in Franklin. Arrangements are under the care of William F. Smart Memorial Home of Tilton. Those wishing may make memorial contributions in Gerard�s name to the Franklin Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice, 75 Chestnut Street, Franklin, NH 03235.