George H. Branchaud

George H. Branchaud, age 73, of New Bedford died Wednesday, March 14, 2012 surrounded by his family after a twenty year struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was the beloved husband of Rita L. (Menard) Branchaud, to whom he had been happily married for 49 years.

Born in New Bedford, a son of the late Edward and Malvina (Potvin) Branchaud, he was a life-long resident of the area.

George attended Saint Anthony High School and served in the US Navy from 1957 to 1963. He was a faithful Catholic and attended St. Anthony of Padua Church. He enjoyed listening to music, dancing, gardening and traveling. George shared a love with his wife Rita that was never ending, they were soul mates. He loved spending time and playing with his grandchildren. Family was the center of his life. He worked as a barber stylist for about 25 years. He then spent the last ten years of his life with his new extended family at Sippican Healthcare Center.

Besides his wife he is survived by one son, Kenneth R. Branchaud and his partner Bryan Clark of Bridgewater; two daughters, Karen J. Brady of Swansea; and Carol C. Fortin and her husband Jeffrey also of New Bedford; five grandchildren, Craig, Sarah and Keith Fortin, Danielle Ouellette and Matthew Silveira and nieces and nephews. He was also the brother of the late Girard Branchaud of New Bedford and Theresa Chrysler of Indiana.

His funeral mass will be held Monday, March 19, 2012 at 10 AM in Our Lady of Fatima Church, 4256 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford. Burial with military honors will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery, New Bedford. Visiting hours respectfully omitted. In lieu of flowers donations to, Alzheimer’s Association, 311 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA 02472, would be appreciated.