Fremont, NH – Gilbert Briggs Jr., 93, of Fremont, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 27, 2016 at his home.
He was born at 98 Osgood Street in South Lawrence, MA on August 28, 1923. He attended the Breen School, the Packard School and graduated from Lawrence High School after coming home from the service.
Gil was a proud Army veteran, who enlisted in the Army in December of 1942 and was sent for Basic Training with the 102nd Infantry Division. He qualified for Army Flight School Training & was later transferred to the 283rd Combat Engineering Battalion. He served in The European Theatre of Operations as a rifleman, demolitions specialist and a heavy machine gunner. In February of 1946 Gil was wounded and was honorably discharged. He later enlisted in the Army Reserves; 20 years as Master Sargent and weapons specialist trainer. In 1966 he received his Special Forces Diploma and his Green Beret.
Gil was a lifetime member and certified instructor of the NRA. He was also a life member of the VFW and DAV. At age 55, Gil attained another goal and received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maine. He worked as a Manufacturing Engineer for Damien, Data General & Raytheon in Andover, MA and Lowell, MA.
Gil loved life and touched the lives of many people. He loved books, reading & music & loved to dance. He enjoyed history and cherished his Irish Setters. He was intelligent, humorous and maintained his trademark medicinal love of vodka. He was an avid outdoor guy; running, hiking, shooting, skiing, sailing and golf were some of his favorite pastimes.
Gil was one of three Children born to the late Gilbert and Ethel Briggs and was the beloved husband for over 40 years to Linda Houle-Briggs. Gil will be forever remembered by his three beloved children (from a previous marriage) & their life partners, Dianne Briggs, Sandra (Briggs) Weissman & David Cherry, Ronald Briggs & Nancy Greenwood; treasured grandchildren Sabrina Briggs & Anthony Weissman, along with countless friends and
A Memorial Service will be held at his home, 7 Birch Haven Drive, Fremont, NH 03044 at 2:00 P.M. on October 15, 2016. The family request that donations be sent to the NHSPCA, 104 Portsmouth Ave, Stratham, NH, 03885.
Rubyann Savastano says
Dear Diane & Sandy: I am sending you thoughts of hope and encouragement for brighter days ahead.
Sorry for the loss of your DAD. May he rest in peace.
Rubyann Savastano
Tom Anderson says
We will see memorial memories alive and well on his very own network coming soon on Facesbyplaces.com just like Facebook their will be a place for them .
Mary & Jim Riley says
I will always remember the fun times and the many cookouts . So many years and so many wonderful memories. Thanks to you and Linda for those memories. Always in my thoughts and prayers. Love you Gill Briggs …
Dorothy Jones Rogers says
My deepest sympathy to your family. From an old friend from St. Augustine’s in So.Lawrence
Dorothy Jones Rogers
Clark Jones says
Dear Ronnie, I am sorry to hear about your father. I always enjoyed playing golf with you and him. I have fond memories of your Dad as he was inspiring to me. Such a kind gentle soul.
John & Bety Mitchell says
We are so sorry for your loss Linda, Gil was a very special person who enjoyed people and telling stories of all his adventures in life. We had a lot of good times at all your cookouts and Christmas parties at your home. His love of his dogs was unquestionable as was his love for you.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Judy Day says
Hi Linda-I’m so sorry for your loss-hope your doing ok, This is Judy Garland AKA Judy Day got married on 911 1981,last time I saw you was at Pat and Skis pool party in Billerica-take care and God Bless and again my deepest sympathy hope to hear from you
Chuck & Joan Gagnon says
Linda,
Chuck worked with Gil for a period of time & I remember him talking about Gil often. Also remembering all the cookouts we were invited to & had such a great time. Gil was a special man. He will be missed. We send our condolence to you Linda & your family.
Chuck & Joan.
Ernie & Dottie Dumas says
Gil will be missed for his wit and stories about WWII. We enjoyed many parties and cookouts with him and every birthday party for Gil was a big event. He lived a very full life and loved nature and especially his Irish setters. Love & Prayers for the whole family.