Gerald T. McCarthy, 78, Navy Veteran, Taught Sheet Metal Classes

gerald_mccarthyGerald T. McCarthy, 78, of Haverhill, husband of Ida “Kitty” (Coco) McCarthy, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 20, at Merrimack Valley Hospice, surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in Haverhill, he was the son of the late William and Catherine (Venti) McCarthy. He attended public school in Haverhill and was a graduate of Haverhill Trade School, class of 1955. He  served his country four years in the United States Navy and eight years in the Naval Reserve. McCarthy attended Northern Essex Community College, Fitchburg State Teachers College and Naval schools. He taught sheet metal trades at Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School from 1978 until 1981. He also taught metal fabrication to trade groups in the workplace. He was a life-long metal worker and certified welder. He built and installed machinery for the food, chemical and pharmaceutical industry worldwide for Wolverine Corporation. He worked at Runtal North America until his retirement.

He was a longtime New York Yankees and New York Jets fan. McCarthy enjoyed big band music, especially Frank Sinatra. He was an avid candlepin bowler and enjoyed walking which he did for more than 40 years. He was a co-sponsor of the Sportsman Softball League and played in industrial, sportsman and senior softball leagues as well as a weekend traveler league. He also played semi-pro football in the Navy Southern Europe and North Africa Football Conference. He was an antique and classic automobile restorer, restoring Shelby Mustangs, Chevy Corvettes and Camaros. He had a deep love for any antique and classic cars. He was a member of the Shelby American Auto Club, Shelby Owners Club, USS Forrestal (CV-59), the Lincoln Welding Club and the Toastmasters International Club.

In addition to his wife, he leaves a son, Brian McCarthy and his wife Melanie of Methuen, along with many cousins, nieces and nephews.

At the request of the family funeral services will be private. Arrangements are under the direction of the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main St., Haverhill.