Eugene Raymond Kerrigan

Eugene "Gene" Raymond Kerrigan, 86, of Springvale, passed away on Monday, July 1, 2013 at his home after a prolonged and heartbreaking battle with lung disease.Gene was born in Sanford on April 28, 1927, son of the late Charles and Fabiola (Demers) Kerrigan. Gene grew up in Sanford where he attended St. Ignatius Schools. While attending school, Gene worked for Darvill's Bakery at the age of 14 and later Legere's Bakery on Main Street in Sanford. Gene's story began at the young age of 14 when he discovered his passion for baking. Gene served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II aboard the USS Tomahawk and also the USS Winslow. He was honorably discharged in 1946 with the rank of Baker 3rd Class. Upon returning to Sanford he went back to work for Legere's Bakery. In 1959 he purchased Legere's Bakery and began his life long passion as a baker. Gene's Bakery was then created along with his famous "Maple Squares, Whoopie Pies and Napolians". In 1973, his new building was built on School Street in Sanford known as Gene's Bakery, Restaurant & Banquet Facilities which with pride he owned and operated until it was sold in 1984. Gene continued to work part time for the new owner teaching him some of his baking skills. In 1986, he went to work as a baker for Shaw's Super Market in Sanford until 1992 when he decided to retire. Little did he know retirement wouldn't last forever! In 1995 at age 68 only 3 short years after Gene retired, he and his wife needed to reopen and reestablish Gene's Bakery until it was sold on his birthday April 28, 1996. Not only did Gene make delicious breads, pies and pastries as a baker during his 26 years of business, he also gave his family and friends memories that they will look back on for years to come. After his retirement, he enjoyed woodworking, gardening and baking for his family, especially during the holidays. He also enjoyed his Sunday drives to the beach with his wife. 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. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his wife and family which was most important to him. Gene will forever be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. We have been truly blessed to have him in our lives. He was the rock of our family and the one we always looked up to. His endless charm and witty personality would always light up the room. Love lives on in the little things we've shared, in the moments we will always treasure, and in the love and smiles we will never forget. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a communicant of the Notre Dame Church in Springvale. He was predeceased by a brother, John "Jack" Kerrigan and a brother-in-law, George Auger.He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Gertrude Vezina Kerrigan; his son, Gary Kerrigan and his wife, Cyndi of Land O' Lakes, FL; two daughters, Kathy Libby and her husband, Dana of Springvale and Lory Payeur and her husband, Jim of Sanford; nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren; a brother, Donald Kerrigan and his wife, Georgie of Springvale; a sister, Nancy Auger of Springvale; a sister-in-law, Roberta Kerrigan of Sanford, and many nieces and nephews. Gene's family would like to thank Gentiva Home Healthcare and Beacon Hospice, especially his nurse, Kathy and Shirley, his home health aide, for the excellent care given to him. Gene was especially grateful to Shirley who he called his "Angel on Earth" and who became a special part of our family. The family of Gene would also like to express their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to Father Phil Tracy, relatives and friends for all expressions of kindness and for the support given to us during this time of loss. We also want to thank Dan Guillemette, the funeral director at Carll-Heald & Black Funeral Home for the excellent service given to us. A small private service was held on Saturday July 6, 2013 for the immediate family. The burial took place at the Notre Dame Cemetery in Springvale. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider donations in Gene's memory to: The American Lung Association of Maine, 122 State Street, Augusta, ME 04033 or Beacon Hospice, 42 Brickyard Court, York, ME 03909.Arrangements were handled by Black Funeral Homes and Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale.To leave a message of condolence for the family please click on the condolences tab to the left.