Gerard Laflash

MILLBURY - Gerard F. Laflash, 97, died in his sleep, and went home to be with the Lord on Thursday October 21, 2021.

He leaves three children, Gerard Laflash and his wife Michelle, Andree Laflash, and Peter Laflash; 4 grandchildren and one great-grand daughter. He was predeceased by his wife of 54 years, Grace (Gagliardi) Laflash, in 2015.

Born in 1923, he was the only child of Francis and Lillian (Budreau) Laflash.

At 18, he enlisted in the Army Air Corps and served in World War II as a Radio Operator on B-17 & B-24 bombers. D-Day was his first experience with battle. He went on to complete 26 missions over France, Belgium, and Germany. After the war he joined the Navy, patrolling USA’s coastlines by plane until he was honorably discharged in 1950.

Later, he was offered employment with the CIA, but pursued other opportunities closer to home in Massachusetts. As a civilian, he earned his pilot’s license. He worked in retail and as a stockbroker for some time. The last 25 years of his career were as a Tool & Die machinist until he retired in the mid-1980s.

Gerard lived in Millbury almost all of his life. His interest in the town’s history resulted in helping to found the Millbury Historical Society, and to serve on the Historical Commission. He also served as Curator for the former. He was a member of the Millbury VFW Post 3329, and the 8th Airforce Historical Society. Gerard read extensively on numerous subjects including native herbs, science, mechanics, technology, and history. He loved to cook and enjoyed gardening.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the staff at the Jewish Healthcare Center and the JHC Hospice, for the wonderful care and support provided.

Funeral services and burial will be private.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

Collings Foundation at www.collingsfoundation.org or

8th Airforce Historical Society www.mightyeighth.org or

Disabled American Veterans at www.dav.org