1947 - 2012, Loving, Gentle, Kind Teacher, Dad. Gerald Comerford died peacefully at Central Newfoundland Regional Health Centre on Tuesday, January 17th with his family surrounding him. Predeceased by his mother Anna Comerford (Fagan), father Patrick Comerford and sister-inlaw Joyce Comerford. Leaving to mourn his wife (Rachel Kelly); children: Rhonda (Kenneth Hemeon), Sharon (Rob Janes), Gerri Marie (Marcel Laferriere), Tilly (Spencer Vatcher), Carmelita Synyard, Pat Lush (Darlene) and John Bolger. He will be sadly missed by his brothers: Steve (Mary), Pat (Agnes), Jim, Clifford (Mary) and his loving grandchildren: (Hannah, Kaleigh, Robyn, Wyatt, Sarah, Kiara, Victoria, Tyler, Seth, Mariah, Jacob). He leaves behind a large circle of family, nieces, nephews and friends.
Gerald was born in St.Mary’s Bay on May 28, 1947 and married Rachel (Kelly). He battled syringomyelia as a young man and had brain surgery when his oldest daughter was just 3 weeks old. He silently and courageously worked through many years of pain and seldom complained of his ailments. He retired from the family business (Tuxedo and Bridal Salon) in November 2011. Gerald was a very successful businessman and he and his wife Rachel have owned several small businesses (bridal, carpentry, sign rentals, heavy equipment, convenience store, Lazer clinic, contractor for home building, and building supplies store). Early in his career he worked as an engineer at Wabush Mines.
Gerald was community minded (donating graduation dresses and tuxedos to students in need over the years) and also supported various families in need each year including being foster parents to several children over the years.
Gerald’s proudest achievement was his family and friendships made through his many years of building homes, camping sing-a-longs and fun moments shared with his grandchildren.
Father Hearn conducted the funeral Mass from the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Friday, January 20th, 2012. Pallbearers were Pat Comerford, Jimmy Comerford, Kenneth Hemeon, Rob Janes, Marcel Laferriere, and Bert Elliott. Honourary pallbearers were John Bolger and Patrick Lush. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Mike Goodyear of Central Funeral Homes. For condolences online and to listen to the funeral Mass please visit www.centralfuneralhomes.ca