AUBURN — Gerard J. Theberge, 80, of 18 Fox Run Drive, Lewiston, died Monday, May 28, at the Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice.

Born in Brunswick on May 26, 1932, he was the son of Ethelbert and Blanche Fortin Theberge.

Educated in local schools, he was a graduate of St. Dominic Regional High School, Class of ’51. On Feb. 20, 1954, he married the former Alexina D. Auger. She passed away in March of this year.

He served his country for over 20 years, starting with the National Guard at age 17. He joined the regular army after graduating high school and retired from the U.S. Army Reserve at 37 as a Captain after served as company commander for B Company, 417th Regiment.

He worked for B. Peck Co. for over 30 years. When it closed,  he started Harbor House Appliance, Furniture and Electronics Store with his two sons and his partner, Robert Langlais.

He belonged to the American Legion, Post No. 22, was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans, was a third degree Knight of Columbus, Council No. 106, and belonged to the Sacred Heart Auto League.

A member of Holy Family Church, Prince of Peace Parish, he was a man of immense faith throughout his entire life. He was a great dad to all of his eight children, and always did everything he could to care for them and guide them through life.

He was very adventuresome, enjoyed bringing the whole family on fun outings and travelled extensively with his wife, visiting numerous countries.

Gerry enjoyed working with his hands, whether it was around the house or creating woodworking projects that he would give to his children.

He also loved animals, especially his last dog, Buddy, that was his constant companion for 14 years.

Dad had the gift of gab, was always quick with a joke and kept everyone laughing. No matter what, he lived his life on his own terms. He maintained his pride, dignity, and independence until his final days.

He will be truly missed and never forgotten.

Survivors include two sons, Remi and his wife, Patricia, of Litchfield, and Marc and his wife, Donna, of Lewiston; six daughters, Jeanne Morin and her husband, Maurice, of Auburn, Therese Mercier and her husband, Marcel, of Monmouth, Rachel Crookston and her husband, David, of Greene, Lisa Shen and her husband, Ben, of Auburn, Suzanne Levesque and her husband, Dan, of Lewiston, and Renee Barkley of New York; a sister, Margaret Theberge of Lewiston, 10 grandchildren; Carey, Shelley, Lee, Alisson, Steven, Matthew, Troy, Nicole, Theressa and Haley; three great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, and his good friend, Donna Jordan of Lisbon.

Besides his loving wife of 58 years, he was predeceased by two brothers, Fred and Remy Theberge.

Donations and condolences may be accessed online at www.albert-burpee.com.