Trudy's obituary
Gertrude Marie Gingras Obituary 1927 – 2025
Gertrude Marie Gingras passed away peacefully on February 22, 2025—just one day after celebrating her 98th birthday.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1927 to Charles and Mary Shea, Gertrude (fondly known as Trudy) lived a life full of devotion, love, and service. In 1947, she married Leon Norman Gingras, a dedicated Malden firefighter, and together they raised five children: Carol, Jean and Joan (twins), Michael, and Robert.
In 1973, after Norman’s retirement, the couple moved to Florida, first settling in Deerfield Beach and later relocating to Venice in 1980. Gertrude and Norman shared 54 wonderful years of marriage before Norman's passing in September 2001.
Trudy was a woman of style, grace, and energy. She loved to socialize, could play any card game with ease, and lit up the dance floor with her natural rhythm and joy. Always the classiest woman in the room, she dressed impeccably—even just to check the mail—and carried herself with effortless elegance.
Throughout her life, Trudy remained deeply committed to her family, her faith, and her community. She was a proud mother, grandmother to seven, and great-grandmother to sixteen. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the comfort of faith.
She was an active and cherished member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, where she served in numerous ministries including the Rosary Society, Council of Catholic Women (CCW), funeral ministry, and the church’s gift shop. She also enjoyed participating in groups such as the bell choir and Mahjong club.
Trudy generously gave her time as a volunteer at Venice Health Park for over 30 years, assisting patients and visitors with kindness and grace. A skilled crafter, she lovingly created hundreds of prayer shawls that were gifted to parishioners and friends in need of comfort. She also generously gave her time to the Venice Theatre, bringing her warmth and enthusiasm to every role behind the scenes.
Her legacy is one of faith, compassion, strength, and style. She was our angel on Earth and now in heaven. Gertrude will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
A Memorial Mass will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church on May 6, 2025 at 10:00am EST.