MANCHESTER, NH — Fernand “Fern” Gelinas died on his 92nd birthday, October 15, 2019, at Catholic Medical Center after a period of declining health. He was born in Manchester on October 15, 1927, and was the son of Joseph and Yvonne (Caron) Gelinas.
He was educated in the Manchester Catholic school system graduating from St. Anthony School and also attended New Hampshire College.
He was a veteran of the United States Navy serving on the USS Midway the largest aircraft carrier at the time.
Fern spent nearly 35 Years in the baking industry starting off in route sales with Genest Baking Company and retiring as a district manager with the Nissen Baking Company.
He was very active in Manchester government. First serving as chairman of the Zoning Board of Adjustment then as alderman for Manchester’s Ward 7 and chairman of the police commission with the Manchester Police Department.
Fern was very active in fraternal affairs. He was a life member of the Knights of Columbus both Third and Fourth degree, was a Past Grand Knight with Our Lady of the Cedars Council # 5260, Manchester and on the state council level, was a former district deputy. He was also a member of the American Legion, Stevens- Buswell Post #54 in Bedford.
He was a communicant of St. Catherine of Siena Church and a faithful member of the League of 1000 Men of the Precious Blood, both in Manchester.
Family members include his sons, David and his wife, Deborah, both of Manchester and Donald and his wife, Darlene, both of Florida; a brother, Norman “Norm” Gelinas and his wife, Lillian, both of Manchester; his only grandson, Matthew Gelinas and his wife, Christina, both of Amherst, and many nephews, nieces and cousins.
Fern was predeceased by his wife of nearly 60 years, Jeanette L. (Gagnon) Gelinas, who died in 2008; his three sisters, Marie Biron, Helen Moquin and Yvonne Lavoie and his brother Andrew “Andy” Gelinas.
SERVICES: As per Fern’s wishes, services are private. Burial is at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Manchester. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Precious Blood Monastery, 700 Bridge St., Manchester, NH 03104.
Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory, Manchester is assisting the family with arrangements.
