SPRINGVALE — Gertrude “Gert” Vezina Kerrigan, 85, of Springvale, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at her home surrounded by her loved ones, after a six month battle with oral squamous cell carcinoma cancer.

Gert was born in Springvale on Oct. 28, 1929, daughter of the late Aurele and Mathilda (Perreault) Vezina.

Gert grew up in Springvale, where she graduated from Notre Dame School, Springvale, in 1944 and attended St. Ignatius High School in Sanford.

She met the love of her life, Eugene “Gene” Kerrigan, at the age of 16, when Gene was 18. They were married on May 28, 1949 at Notre Dame Church, Springvale. Gert’s heart would never be the same after the passing of her beloved husband and soulmate of 64 years on July 1, 2013.

Gert was a member of Daughters of Isabella and a communicant of St. Thérése de Lisieux-Notre Dame Church, Springvale.

She was employed at the former Goodall-Sanford Textile Mills in the mending room in Springvale until the closing in 1954. She raised their family while working alongside Gene when they owned and operated Gene’s Bakery on Main Street in Sanford. They later decided to expand the business and built Gene’s Bakery-Restaurant and Banquet Facilities on School Street in Sanford. The Banquet Room was later known as “The Upper Room” until sold.

Gert collected angel dolls and figurines, loved writing and sending greeting cards, reading in the sunroom, and gardening, where she had a good eye for the perfect spot when planting her flowers. She enjoyed being home, but most importantly, she treasured time spent with her family.

Gene and Gert were often spotted by Number One Pond enjoying the scenery and spending time together, with a cup of coffee, and often a doughnut, too! She also enjoyed her Sunday drives to the beach with her husband. A ride to the beach never seemed complete unless they stopped by the Franciscan Monastery in Kennebunkport, lighting a candle for someone they felt was in need of a prayer. When you saw oneof the couple, you would surely see the other!

She was a beautiful, loving, kind, giving, and nurturing mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend who touched the hearts of many. Family could always count on her listening ear, comforting advice and wisdom to guide them whenever their hearts so desired. They’ll never forget the many comforting hugs and kisses she gave that would surely warm their hearts and make them smile.

She was truly a gift to all, and everyone was all so blessed to have her in their lives. She will be missed more than words can say. The family is so thankful for all her prayers ”“ her prayers for each and every one of them.

Mom, even though you and dad are in God’s arms and dancing among the angels now, you both will be forever in our hearts. You are now complete once again, together forever with Dad. We love you both.

She is preceded in death by: her loving husband, Gene, of 64 years.

She is survived by: her son, Gary Kerrigan and his wife Cyndi of Land O’ Lakes, Florida; two daughters, Kathy Libby and her husband Dana of Springvale, and Lory Payeur and her husband Jim of Sanford; nine grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; a brother, Roger Vezina and his wife Jackie of Auburndale, Florida; two sisters, Rita Richard and her husband Ted of Acton, and Constance Heald and her husband Richard of Port St. Lucie, Florida; and many nieces and nephews.

Gert’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Dr. George Savastio, who loved and cared for their mother like she was his own; words cannot thank him enough. They were also very blessed and could not have asked for a more supportive and caring group of individuals, who have shown such a passion for what they are doing from both the HomeHealth Visiting Nurses and Hospice of Southern Maine. Many thanks to relatives and friends for all expressions of kindness and their support given to the family during this time of loss. The family is grateful to Pastor Rick Leach for the loving eulogy he shared about this beautiful woman, and for Dan Guillemette, the funeral director at Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home, for the excellent service.

A small private service was held on Saturday, March 14 for the immediate family.

The burial will take place in the spring at Notre Dame Cemetery in Springvale.

Those who wish to remember Gertrude in a special way can make donations in her name to Hospice of Southern Maine, 180 U.S. Route 1 #1, Scarborough, ME 04074, or HomeHealth Visiting Nurses, 15 Industrial Park Road, Saco, ME 04072.

Arrangements are under the direction of Black Funeral Homes and Cremation Service.

To leave a message of condolence for the family, visit www.blackfuneralhomes.com.