Gerald L. Willey

Gerald was born in Cherryfield, ME, and attended Brewer High School, graduating in 1946. He relocated to Pocasset in 1950, along with his parents, brother and sister. Gerald proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for two years, from 1951-1953, in the Korean Conflict. After returning home, he worked in construction, and a boatyard before taking a position as a heavy equipment operator in the department of Road and Grounds on Otis Air Force Base, where he remained until he retired in 1989, after 29 years of dedication. Following retirement, he was employed at Ballentine's Boat Shop in Cataumet. Gerald had a passion for working and creating with his hands, and assisted the boat shop with repairing engines, making custom marine hardware, and various other tasks. He remained devoted to his craft for the duration of his life.

Gerald loved the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, and enjoyed his time with family and friends. Later in life, he enjoyed snowmobiling, boating, and traveling. He was an original, life-long member of Monument Beach Sportsman's Club, where he helped construct the indoor pistol and outdoor trap ranges. More recently, Gerald took part in the restoration of two antique cars. Other accomplishments include, the dredging of Fiddlers Cove in North Falmouth, and the welding of the Chatham Fisherman's Monument, "The Provider", created by artist, Sig Purwin, located at the Chatham Fish Pier.

Gerald, who is survived by his wife, Susanne (Ryder) Willey, enjoyed 57 years of marriage. He is also survived by his three children and their spouses, Deborah (Willey) and Daniel Fitzpatrick Jr., Kimball and Nichole (Rabitor) Willey, and Donna (Willey) and Colin Blight, his brother, Gary H. Willey and his wife, Betsy (Ryder) Willey, and his sister Janice (Willey) Finton, and her husband Carl M. Finton. In addition, 7 grandchildren, Daniel Fitzpatrick III, Erin (Fitzpatrick) Welch, Jacob Rabitor, Kayla Willey, Tyler Blight, Ryan Blight, and Kiersten Willey, and 3 great grandchildren, Aiden Burrill, Nataly Fitzpatrick, and Brandon Welch. Gerald will also be missed by many cousins, nieces and nephews.

A graveside service to celebrate Gerald's life, will be held at Pocasset Cemetery, 185 Barlow's Landing Road, Pocasset, MA, on Wednesday, April 5th at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Heart Association.