Gerald A. Fontaine

Mr. Gerald "Jerry" A. Fontaine, 79, passed away with his loving family by his side on Wednesday, January 7, 2015 in St. Elizabeth Medical Center. He was born in Utica on January 4, 1936, the youngest son of the late Salvatore and Providence (Coletti) Fontaine. He was educated in local schools and a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. Jerry later attended MVCC and graduated with a degree in drafting. On June 11, 1960 in St. Peter's Church, Jerry was joined in marriage to the former Marion Rose Gamello. The couple has enjoyed a loving marriage of over fifty-four years. Mr. Fontaine began his career as a draftsman at Kelsey Hayes/Utica Corp, and later worked at Rome-Revere, before returning to Utica Corp and retiring in 2001. In earlier years he enjoyed helping out at his brother's business, Fontaine's Service Station, and he was active in the Barbershop Harmony Society. He always enjoyed getting together with the Proctor Men's Lunch Club and Rome Revere Lunch Club. A classic car enthusiast, Jerry always looked forward to going to the car shows. He also loved working around the house, and no matter what the season you could always find him outside taking care of his home, as well as other homes in the neighborhood. He loved to travel with his wife; spend time with his grandson; and watch the Yankees. He is survived by his beloved wife, Marion; two daughters and sons-in-law, Carla and Mark Kloster of Marcy, and Colette and Steve Connolly of Albany; his adored grandson, Thomas Kloster; his sister, Mary Leo; a sister-in-law, Dolores Fontaine; his mother-in-law, Rose Gamello; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Dr. Anthony and Marge Dardano; many nieces and nephews; and his close friends, Frank and Esther Mazzotti and Dick and Marie Lambert. He was predeceased by four brothers and three sisters-in-law, Charles and Lucy Fontaine, Mario and Monica Fontaine, Albert and Shirley Fontaine, and Steve Fontaine; brother-in-law Liberty Leo; father-in-law Ralph Gamello and an infant sister, Santina Fontaine. Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Church/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Private interment will be in Calvary Cemetery. There are no calling hours. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of mass. By family request please omit floral offerings. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the medical professionals who took care of Jerry. Also a special thank you to his neighbors, especially Larry and Christy Calenzo, for all they have done for Jerry and Marion.

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