Gerald LaPierre
EAST LONGMEADOW, MA- Dr. Gerald Neil LaPierre, 80, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, died in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family, Saturday, May 19. He was born in Boston, on September 6, 1937, the only child of William and Albina LaPierre. Dr. LaPierre was a graduate of Boston Latin High School, Bates College, and received his medical degree from Boston University. He served his residency at Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT, and was chief resident his last year. He then went into practice with Radiology and Imaging Group at Baystate Medical Center, Springfield.
Dr. LaPierre had a lot of passions including tennis, skiing, and wine. For 40 years he shared his passion for wine with a group of fellow enthusiasts as well as being involved in Taste a Vin club for many years. Dr. LaPierre was an avid traveler, supporter of the Boston and Springfield symphony orchestras, where he and his wife attended many wonderful symphony seasons. He also loved animals, especially dogs, opera, and watching the Red Sox and Patriots. Dr. LaPierre was a member of the Field Club of Longmeadow for 44 years and served on their board.
Dr. LaPierre’s greatest joy was his family and friends. He was a devoted family man who loved life and always found the positive side in everything. He leaves his loving wife of nearly 59 years, Therese; their five children, William (Patricia), Brian (Donna), Karen Glass (Martin), Steven (Amy), and Glenn; and four grandchildren, Jeremy, Sarah Glass, Caroline, and Elizabeth LaPierre. He also leaves his brother-in-law, Norman Boucher (Carmen), sister-in-in law, Rachel Smalley, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Throughout his long illness, Dr. LaPierre was always the eternal optimist and continued to enjoy life to the fullest. He traveled the world but was always hoping for “one more trip” and especially loved visiting his “paradise,” as he called it, Mount Snow. Other favorites were Sedona and the Costa del Sol in Spain.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Springfield Symphony Orchestra, 1441 Main Street, Suite 121, Springfield, MA 01103, or Baystate VNA and Hospice, 50 Maple Sreet, Springfield, MA 01102, Baystate Heart and Vascular Program, 759 Chestnut St, Springfield, MA 01199. To offer a personal expression of sympathy visit www.forastiere.com.