Former Brockton Firefighter Dies From Coronavirus Complications

BROCKTON, MA — Former Brockton Firefighter Gerald N. Dufresne Jr. "Duke" died from complications related to COVID-19 on Sunday, Jan. 10 in Jensen Beach, Florida, says his obituary.

Dufresne was born and raised in Brockton and and a 1958 graduate of Brockton High School. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army.

Following his service in the military, Dufresne became a Brockton firefighter and was a member of the Brockton Firefighters Union, Local 144. He remained a member of the Brockton Fire Department until his retirement in 1996.

Dufresne was involved with both Christ the King Parish in Brockton and Saint Martin de Porres in Jensen Beach.

"Gerry loved relaxing at the beach or swinging a club at the golf course," says his obituary. "He also enjoyed gardening, fishing and bird watching. One of his greatest achievements came at age 75 when he shot his first and only hole in one."

Dufresne leaves behind his wife, Nancy, three children, four grandchildren, and his two brothers.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, services will be held at a later date.