Gertrude M. (Boutin) Vanasse

CAMARILLO, CA - It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Gertrude “Gert” Marie Vanasse on February 15, 2025, 9 days before her 94th birthday, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s.

Beloved wife of Donald Vanasse, they would have celebrated 70 years of marriage August 20, 2025. Beloved mother to Annette (Doug) Prosser, Elaine (Luke) Cardella, Anita Akkerman, Donald (Roberta) Vanasse. Proud Memere to Matthew (Kristina) Prosser, Michael (Andrea) Prosser, Kristen (Juan) Torres, Bryan (Sara) Cardella, Kevin (Stephanie) Cardella, Melanie (Matthew) Kadowaki, Jeffrey (Erin) Akkerman, Michelle Akkerman (Mario Requejo), Taylor, Derek and Lexie Vanasse. Very proud great Memere to 14 great grandchildren with # 15 expected in May.

Gert was born and raised in Providence, R.I. to Omer and Eugenie Boutin, one of six children. Gert was predeceased by her parents and siblings Yvette Lapointe, Robert Boutin, Theresa Desrochers, Helen Peltier and Pauline Peltier.

She worked at Bulova Watch Co, and Atlantic Mills in Providence, R.I. The family moved from Johnston, R.I. to Camarillo in 1973. Gert worked at 3M until her retirement in 1986, so she could enjoy her grandchildren.

She taught many of them how to ride a 2 wheel bike. She also loved going to the 99 cent store, sitting in the sun, bowling, gardening, playing cards, trying new recipes and baking. Gert was also a gleaner for food share for many years. She knitted many sweaters for the family. She went skydiving for her 84th birthday. Gert was also a faithful parishioner at St Mary Magdalen church for 51 years. Her wonderful and dear friend Ebelia has been a constant comfort and support for many years.

Gert has been in the loving care of the staff at Silverado since April 1, 2024, and Mission Hospice since October.

Donations in her name can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Funeral Mass will be held March 8, 2025 at St Mary Magdalen Chapel in California. Blessing for burial will be Monday, April 14, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. in St Ann Cemetery Chapel, Cranston, RI.

Tiny but mighty Gert’s spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

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