Beresford – It is with profound sadness that we, the family, announce the passing of Gilles Pitre, who passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, March 28, 2025, at the age of 74.
A native of Beresford, he was the son of the late Martin Pitre and the late Mildred Spencer.
Gilles is survived by the love of his life, his cherished wife of 52 years, Murielle (née Doucet) Pitre.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his two daughters: Annie Pomeroy (Terry) of Oromocto and Nadia Boucher (Vincent) of Beresford, as well as five grandchildren whom he loved deeply: Océane, Eddie, Johnny, Cloé, and Robin, for whom he was the best “pépère,” along with Mackenzie Logan, his step-granddaughter. He also leaves behind three brothers: Louïs Pitre (Pauline) of Caraquet, Paul Pitre (Nicole) of Beresford, and Philippe Pitre of Bathurst, as well as two sisters from Beresford: Eleanor Magny (late Jacques) and Jocelyne Frenette (Roland), in addition to numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.
Gilles was a passionate baseball enthusiast and earned a respected reputation as a renowned pitcher in the region. Throughout his career, he was inducted into the sports halls of fame of Bathurst in 1990, Campbellton in 1995, Beresford in 1996, and Belledune in 1997.
He particularly enjoyed his hunting and fishing trips with his son-in-law, Vincent. His passion for bass fishing was well known, and he could often be found at the home of good friends, Eldon and Carmelle, on summer evenings, fishing and admiring the sea.
Gilles was also our beloved guitarist and singer. Many fond memories were made during evenings of family gatherings and quiet afternoons at home, listening to his songs and the sweet, unforgettable sounds of his guitar. He generously shared his musical gifts by volunteering to sing at local nursing homes.
Always ready to lend a helping hand, Gilles showed unwavering devotion to both his family and his community.
He was a dedicated member of the Beresford Knights of Columbus, Council 8189, since 1985, holding several positions, including Grand Knight, Treasurer, and Youth Director. He was also a Faithful Navigator of the Father Irénée Bouchard Council 8189. In 2013, he received the Medal of Merit, the highest honor bestowed upon an accredited member of the New Brunswick Knights of Columbus.
He was President of the Beresford Groundhog Festival from 1993 to 1995, and again in 2020. In addition, he served as a Beresford Volunteer Firefighter for 30 years and held the position of Captain until his retirement in 2017.
Gilles worked for the Town of Beresford for 20 years, taking great pride in his work, particularly in the maintenance of Beresford Beach, a place he loved dearly.
He is now reunited with his best friend, Roger Boudreau.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Arianne Bouchard, Dr. Sylvain Matteau, Pharmacist at the Familiprix in Beresford, Steve Doucet and the nurses of the Extra-Mural Program, especially respiratory therapist Rebecca Boudreau.
Family and friends are invited to visit the Heritage Funeral Home (www.mfheritage.com) in Beresford on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, and Wednesday, April 30, 2025. The funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., at St-Nom-de-Jésus Church in Beresford. Visiting hours are Tuesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 2:00 p.m. until the departure for the funeral. In memory of Gilles, donations to the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.
