Bernard Donald Gauvin, 85, of Mattapoisett, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2024. He was home and surrounded by family. Born in New Bedford to the late Olivier J. and Juliette G. (Pare) Gauvin, he was one of six children. Bernie was the husband of Nancy A. (Hawes) Gauvin. In 63 years of marriage, they built their home and raised four children in Mattapoisett.
He was predeceased by two of his children, Colleen Calise and Scott Gauvin, and his brothers Jean O. Gauvin (late wife Shelia), Andre Gauvin, Norman Gauvin and Ronald Gauvin.
His immediate family consists of sister Claire and husband David Hartigan of Maryland, sister-in-laws Margaret, Irene, Muriel, son Mark Gauvin and wife Kathy of Mattapoisett, late daughter Colleen Calise and husband Stephen of Mattapoisett, daughter Joann Price and husband James, and late son Scott Gauvin and wife Janet, of Rochester. He was the supportive Pepere to 12 grandchildren: Taran Calise, Chelsey Frey and husband Marc, Colin Calise and wife Stephanie, Brett Gauvin and wife April, Janine Cann and husband Ryan, Olivia Gauvin, Steven Price and wife Allie, Alex Calise, Luke Gauvin, Maxx Wolski, Joseph Gauvin, and William Gauvin. Adored 5 great- grandchildren: Mia Frey, Jameson Cann, Leo Frey, Charlotte Gauvin, Raelynn Cann and numerous nieces and nephews, including cherished niece Lorraine Barry and husband Peter Wolski.
He was a communicant of St. Anthony’s Parish. Famously known for “Bernie’s Baked Beans” by his friends of the Knights of Columbus in town.
Bernie was formally employed as a general contractor with Gauvin & Clerc Builders. Also known as “Mr. G”, he spent some of his retirement as the head custodian at Old Hammondtown School.
Always known as “Mister Fix-It” or “Mister Build- it”, he enjoyed supervising his family and friends’ numerous projects. As a skilled craftsman, you could find him in his workshop or tinkering on one of his tractors around the yard. He also enjoyed warm summer nights with his wife and friends down on the wharf.
The visiting hours will be held on Friday, February 16th from 4-8 pm in the Saunders- Dwyer Mattapoisett Home for Funerals, 50 County Rd. (Rt. 6), Mattapoisett. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, February 17th at 10 am in his parish of St. Anthony’s Church. Burial will follow in St. Anthony’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Knights of Columbus 57 Fairhaven Rd, P.O. Box 483, Mattapoisett, MA 02739. For directions and guestbook, visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
Nancy and family I am so sorry to hear about Bernie’s passing. I know this is difficult for you all. I am praying for all of you to have the strength to accept this and know that he is at peace. I also pray that you will find solace and peace knowing God is with you all, always.
Barbara Gaspar