AUBURN – Gerald “Gerry” Emile Tardif, 88, passed away Saturday, Nov. 26, 2022 at his home with his loving wife Jeannine by his side.

He was born Jan. 19, 1934 in Lewiston, the son of Romeo and Josephine (Croteau) Tardif.

Gerald served with distinction in the United States Army Reserve, running the motor pool at different bases in the United States

He founded Gerry’s Body Shop and Car Carrier Service in the Lewiston Industrial Park. He was well-known in the public safety community for his ability as a tow truck operator at accident scenes and had repaired and painted many of their fire trucks.

Gerry enjoyed hunting; he was also a respected marksman and had been a shooting advisor for law enforcement agencies throughout Maine.

Most importantly he was a warm, loving, generous and kind-hearted husband, father, grandfather, and gentleman to all.

Gerry was a member of the Androscoggin Fish and Game Association, the Auburn Skeet Club, various bowling leagues in the Lewiston area, and founded the Towing and Recovery Association of Maine.

He is survived by his wife Jeannine Tardif; a son Mark Tardif; a daughter Jane Pierce; three grandchildren Keith and his wife Brandy, Morgan and Geoffrey, and two great grandchildren Nathan and Hayden; three stepchildren Maurice Laplante and wife Claire, Tina Penney and husband Michael, and Rachel Charette and husband Daniel; four step grandchildren Ryan Laplante, Kevin Laplante, Lauren Bergeron, and Zachery Charette; and 10 step great grandchildren.

Gerry was predeceased by his first wife Yolande Tardif.

The family would like to express their gratitude for the loving care provided by Androscoggin Home Hospice.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 am Monday, December 5 at the Holy Cross Church, 1080 Lisbon Street, Lewiston.

Arrangements are with The Fortin Group, 70 Horton Street, Lewiston. Online condolences may be shared with his family at http://www.thefortingrouplewiston.com

In lieu of flowers,

donations can be made to:

Androscoggin Home Health and Hospice