Gerry Racicot 1932-2008

RACICOT, GERRY (1932-2008) The family announces with sorrow his unexpected death at home on Boxing Day, December 26, 2008 at age 76 years. Beloved husband of Frances (nee Bitz). Dear father of Bernadet Racicot of Mississauga, Rachele Racicot of Gatineau P.Q., Lewis Racicot of Toronto, Constable Christine Racicot of Mississauga and step- father of Margaret Adam of Timmins, Elizabeth Charbonneau (Dale) of South Porcupine, Angella Dikmic (Davor) of Brampton and Marcel Bertrand of Timmins. He was pre-deceased by his son Paul Leo Racicot (1995) and step-son Andre Bertrand (2007). He is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren as well as his brother Gilles Racicot (Germaine) of Timmins and sisters Pat (Dr. John Sullivan) of Timmins, Jeannine (Mark Rumball) of Scarborough and Claudette Fregonese (late Bruno) of Schumacher. Also surviving is his former wife Maureen Wiser (Andy) of Toronto. Gerry was born and raised in Connaught where he and his family developed a love of music. He began playing piano and singing and entertaining at an early age and was well known throughout the community for his talent. He will be fondly remembered for his entertaining at many local venues including The Pav and the Fountain Court at the Empire Hotel as well as at the family establishment, the Connaught Hotel. He and his sisters also performed regularly a radio show at C.F.C.L. for a number of years. Gerry was a 35+ year employee of Brewer's Retail and was also a member of the Knights of Columbus (council 12589 St. Anthony's Padua). Funeral mass will be held at 1 p.m on Tuesday, December 30, 2008 from St. Anthony's Cathedral. IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, remembrance donations to the charity of your choice would be appreciated. The family will receive friends on Monday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the MIRON- WILSON FUNERAL HOME, 150 Balsam St. S. To light a memorial candle or make online condolences or donations, please visit www.mironwilson.com 1136

My Pepere Gerry passed away on Boxing Day. We spent Christmas day with him. We had a great time. He died peacefully in his sleep. The wake was today, the funeral is tomorrow. I have so many friends and family here in Timmins I could not ask for a more supportive environment.

Here is my Pepere, doing what he did best, playing the piano and entertaining the crowds.