Gaetan Peter Hardy, 72, passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord on Oct. 15 in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Gaetan was predeceased by his son, Dennis Joseph Hardy and his parents, Victor Romeo Hardy and Yolande Viola Hardy.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Gail Gilbride of Holly Ridge, North Carolina; his beautiful and devoted daughter, Kelly Lynn Frederick of Richlands, North Carolina; his loving grandson, Ian Dennis Frederick of Richlands, North Carolina; and his loving granddaughter, Lianna Jean Frederick of Richlands, North Carolina. He is also survived by his siblings, Jocelyne (Jerome) Hartigan of Ohio, Laurent (Diana) Hardy of Colorado, Marcia (George) Hollister of Westbrook, Marjolaine (Robert) Bellonio of Essex, Richard (Donna) Hardy of Westbrook, Patricia (James) Barrett of North Branford, and John (Laura) Hardy of Madison. He will also be remembered by his brother-in-law, Harvey (Laura) Gilbride of East Haven; his sister-in-law, Lori (James) Mattin of Smithfield, Rhode Island; his brother-in-law, Kenneth Gilbride of Alpine, California; and many nieces and nephews. They will miss him dearly.

Before his retirement, in Higganum, Gaetan was the owner of Hardy Siding, LLC, and a highly respected Siding Contractor in the construction community far and wide — a craftsman of high caliber.

Gaetan proudly served our country as a member of the Connecticut Army National Guard in the 102 Infantry Division in New Haven.

When not at work, Gaetan could be found out on his Skeeter bass boat on a lake by himself or with a fishing buddy as he loved nothing better than hitching his boat behind our truck (known as The Beast) and adventurously heading out to fishing tournaments with his friend, Dominic. He was a member of the FLW Bass Fishing League along with many other bass fishing clubs. Gaetan and The Beast often towed Mike Milano’s prize cars to the car shows, as well. These men and Gaetan shared a unique brotherhood of friendship for many years.

Gaetan’s selflessness was apparent in how many people he helped, how many lives he touched, and how many memories are held dear. He will be missed by all who knew him and loved him. Rest In Peace, my love.

Burial will be at the family’s convenience, and a memorial to celebrate his life will be held at a later date (to be announced).