Gerard E. Bewsee

Gerard E. Bewsee, 78, passed away on July 14, 2020 at home with his loving family by his side. Born in Springfield, MA to the late Horace H. and Mildred M (Latour) Bewsee. He was a graduate of the High School of Commerce in the Distributive Education program. Gerard was in the management program at the former Albert Steiger Company and was a buyer of children's accessories before becoming a manager of the Steiger's at the Springfield Plaza in Springfield, MA. From there he was promoted to manager of Steiger's at Enfield Square in Enfield, CT followed by becoming manager of Steiger at Hampshire Mall in Hadley, MA. His last position before the company closed was general store manager at Eastfield Mall in Springfield, MA. In the beginning of his career while climbing the corporate ladder at Steiger he had a dual career in the theater business. His first position was assistant manager of Lowe's Poli in Springfield, MA. then followed by manager of the Rivoli Theatre in Chicopee, MA and later manager of the Strand Theater in Holyoke, MA. He was a communicant of St. Rose de Lima Church in Chicopee, a member and past officer in Distributive Education Club of America (DECA) and Junior Achievement of Western Mass. Gerard was also a member of the Steiger's 25 year Club, Chicopee Elks #1849 and the YMCA of Greater Springfield. He was predeceased by his grandparents William and Mary (Manning) Bewsee, Napoleon and Rose de Lima (Flebotte ) Latour and his dear sister-in-law Patricia C. Bewsee. He leaves his wife Judith Ann (Lawsure) Bewsee of Chicopee, his son James S. Bewsee with grandchildren Anthony and Ashley also of Chicopee, and his daughter Pamela J. Bewsee of Chicopee. His brother Richard C. Bewsee of Palm City, FL and sister Sherrelyn J. Brayton of Hampden, MA. Several beloved nieces, nephews, great niece and great nephews as well. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 21, 2020 from 8:30 to 10:30 A.M. at Ratell Funeral Home 200 Main Street, Indian Orchard followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 11:00 A.M.  in St. Rose de Lima Church 600 Grattan Street, Chicopee. Burial will follow in St. Aloysius Cemetery, Indian Orchard. Memorial contributions in Jerry's memory may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104.