Gerald C. Boileau

Gerald C. Boileau, 81 and of Manning Boulevard, Albany, passed away at home on April 7. Gerald, Jerry or Gerry to his friends, was born in Montreal, Canada on August 30, 1944.

In his youth, Gerald and his family moved to Albany. He attended Siena College and graduated with a B.S. in sociology and received an M.A. in English from The College of St Rose. He had a long career with the Albany County Department of Social Services, retiring after 30 years of service.

Gerald was a unique and amazing person, full of good humor, laughter, generosity, loyalty, and kindness. He treasured his family and his friends, of which he had many: good friends from college, from work and from his many interests and pursuits.

Gerald had a lifelong curiosity for everything and could expound with authority on a number of topics. He was a member of the St Rose Alumni Association, the Singles Outreach Services, and the Dutch Settlers Society. For years, Jerry walked down State Street in traditional Dutch garb for the Friday noon street-scrubbing of the Albany Tulip Festival.

Gerald had a great love of rocks and minerals and generously donated his time to the NYS Museum for many years. At one time, he was also a member of the Caroga Fish and Game Club. He loved hiking, rock hounding, movie-going and was an avid player of Dungeons and Dragons. Gerald was also a well-loved team member of the Bozos Softball Team. His former Gerald C. Boileau Science Foundation was well-known among his friends - for a mere two bucks, one could become a member and partake of Gerald’s most original experiments, including an attempt at walking on water!

Jerry had many animal friends, too, including two iguanas, Juan and Juanita, and a parrot named after an 18th century pirate, Bartholomew Roberts.

Gerald is predeceased by his mother, Diane, and his sister, Claudette. He is survived by two brothers, Richard of Marathon, FL, and Dennis, of Albuquerque, NM, and many, many good and dear friends.

A memorial service to celebrate Gerald’s life will be held on May 9, 2026 at 11am at the Church of St Vincent de Paul, 900 Madison Avenue, Albany. All are welcome to attend.

Gerald loved the legacy and mission of Saint Brother André Bessette of Montreal. Memorial contributions may be made to the St Joseph’s Oratory in Montreal, the Church of St Vincent de Paul or a charity of your choice.