Bernard “Bernie” Paul Gawle, 83, of Easthampton, MA passed away in Huntington with his wife Julie by his side on October 24th the eve of their 53rd wedding anniversary. Born on February 12, 1939, in North Smithfield RI, he was the son of the late Joseph S. Gawle SR. and Viola (Knych) Gawle. Bernie grew up in Easthampton. He attended Sacred Heart grammar school and went on to attend and graduate from Smith Vocational High School. After graduation he joined the Air Force Reserves and was deployed in Europe for two years. Upon returning home from serving his country he went off and started his own real estate development and building business which became his lifelong occupation and passion. Bernie’s business played a large contributing role in Easthampton’s development. Aside from his business he was also involved in the community and was a part of the charter commission.
Bernie enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time in New Brunswick, Canada. He loved his family, especially his granddaughters and enjoyed spending time with them at their summer home on Norwich Lake. Bernie leaves his loving wife Julie Ann (Rys) Gawle, his son, Matthew, and wife Donna Gawle of Easthampton, his three granddaughters whom he cherished, Corinne, Chloe, and Rachel Gawle, his brothers, Edward Gawle of Easthampton, Paul Gawle of Easthampton, and Anthony Gawle of Venice FL. Bernie was predeceased by his brothers Stanley and Joseph Gawle and his sisters Dorothy Mularski and Ursula Brusco. He leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and business associates.
Calling hours will be held Sunday afternoon 2-4 PM at Boucher – O’Brien Funeral Home. His funeral will be held Monday, October 31st beginning at 9 AM from the Boucher – O’Brien Funeral Home, 7 Pleasant St. Easthampton, with a Funeral Mass at 10 AM in Our Lady of the Valley Parish, with burial to follow in St. Stanislaus Cemetery.