Girard Ernest Parenteau

February 25, 1926 - July 2, 2011

GIRARD E. PARENTEAU 1926 - 2011 HOLYOKE � Girard Ernest Parenteau, 85, was called into eternal rest and peace on Saturday, July 2, 2011 at Holyoke Health Care. Gerry was born in Holyoke on February 25, 1926, a son of the late Adelard and Marie Louise (Brouillard) Parenteau and educated in Holyoke schools. Gerry was a longtime employee of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and retired as an assistant superintendent. Most of his career was spent at the Fitzpatrick Skating Arena in Holyoke where he was instrumental in having the state build the arena in his hometown. He was one of the first employees hired there and he dedicated himself to the arena until his retirement in 1990. Gerry also worked at the Chicopee State Pools. Gerry was also very active with the Holyoke High School Purple Knights Hockey Association, where he coached for over 30 years (1958-1990) and spent much time on the ice. He was known as the �Dean of Coaches� throughout Western Massachusetts and was a driving force behind the founding of the Holyoke Youth Hockey Association. The street along the border of the arena was named for him, Parenteau Drive, in dedication to his service to the community. He was a member of the Elk�s Lodge # 902 for over 50 years and was a longtime active member of the Holyoke Country Club. Gerry enjoyed traveling and being active in the local community events. Gerry was very proud of his accomplishments as a coach and loved spending time with family and friends. He is survived by many caring nieces and nephews: Peggy Parenteau, Annmarie Pighetti, Ken and Diane Parenteau, Steve and Laura Parenteau, Deb and Jim Karetka, Brian Parenteau, Gregg Parenteau and Marybeth Parenteau who will forever cherish his memory. Visiting hours for Gerry will be held on Thursday, July 7, 2011 from 4-7 PM at Messier Funeral Home, 1944 Northampton St., Holyoke. His funeral will begin on Friday at 12:45 PM from the funeral home and followed by Liturgy of Christian Burial at 2 PM in St. Patrick�s Church, 30 Main St., South Hadley, MA 01075. The burial will be in St. Rose de Lima Cemetery in the Aldenville Section of Chicopee. Memorial donations in Gerry�s name can be made to the Holyoke High Hockey Booster Club, c/o H.H.S., 500 Beech St., Holyoke, MA 01040 or the the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312. Please visit www.messierfuneralhome.com to share condolences, pictures, memories and view Gerry�s Life Tribute video and memorial webpage.