NORWALK, CONN Gilles J. Fontaine of Norwalk passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2009 in Norwalk Hospital, following a brief illness. He was 83. Born in St. Theodore, Quebec, Canada on May 17, 1926, Gilles was the son of the late Romeo and Germaine (Marsan) Fontaine and moved to Norwalk at the age of 4. He was educated in local schools and served in the US Navy during WWII. Upon his return home to Norwalk, he married his beloved wife of thirty-nine years, Caroline J. Rizzi, who passed away in 1991. Together, they raised their children and provided for his family. Gilles entered the trade of masonry and worked for Wagner Pools for many years. His skills as a Master Craftsman led him to work independently throughout Fairfield County and his work can be found in many celebrity and residential households. He worked regularly up until the time of his death. Gilles enjoyed his family, especially his grandchildren. He also could be found sharing a good laugh at his local watering holes at the Sherwood Diner and Speedy Donuts. He was a member of the American Legion Post 12 and a member of the former Neptune Boat Club of East Norwalk. He is survived by two sons, Edward C. and his wife, Mary Ellen Fontaine of Norwalk and John G. Fontaine of Germany; three daughters, Sandra A. and her husband, Thomas Hyde of Norwalk, Jill M. and her husband, Frank Sproch of Norwalk and Michele A. and her husband, Paul Rerick of Wakefield, RI; eight grandchildren, Chris, Amanda, Melissa, Sarah, Marcel, Renee, Hannah and Emily; a sister, Anita Murray of Baltic, CT and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service with full military honors will be held on Friday, July 24, 2009 at St. John's Cemetery, Norwalk at 11:30 a.m. Monsignor Walter C. Orlowski of St. Matthew R.C. Church, Norwalk will officiate. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Mid Fairfield Hospice, 761 Main Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851. GILLES' DVD TRIBUTE IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING ON THIS PAGE. CLICK ON 'VIEW A VIDEO' BELOW HIS PHOTO AND PRESS PLAY.
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