Gerald J. "Jim" Beaupré

Douglas- Gerald James “Jim” Beaupré aka “Gerry”, 68, of Woodstock CT, a longtime former resident and police officer in Douglas, passed away Thursday, February 3, 2022 at UMass Medical Center in Worcester.

     Jim is survived by his financée Melanie Finkeldey whom he planned to marry in Newport RI, this summer; his mother Frances Jean (Gildersleeve) Beaupre of Douglas; 2 sisters, Linda J. Seabolt-Bouvier of Pawtucket, RI and Anne B. Stefaniak and her husband Michael of Whitinsville; a brother, George A. Beaupre of Wilton Manors, FL; a niece, nephews, and grand-nephews, and his beloved dog Duke. He was predeceased by his father Gerald J. Beaupre in 1997, his brother John A. Beaupre in 1974, and his brother-in-law, William Condon in 2019. 

     Born in Dexter, Maine on Oct. 24, 1953, Jim is a son of the late Gerald “Gerry” and Frances “Jean” Beaupre. He was raised in Dexter, Dover-Foxcroft, and Eastport ME, and in Douglas where he was a 1972 graduate of the Douglas High School. He studied Law Enforcement at Northeastern University for several years. He later lived in Thompson, CT for nearly 20 years, then in Putnam and Woodstock CT.

     Known as “Gerry” throughout Douglas during high school and his 20-year career as a police officer there, he proudly tackled the challenges of his work. Especially on the night shift for his last few years on the force, he was often first to respond to car accidents and house fires. He was a member of the Town of Douglas Dive Rescue team, and as such was involved in a number of diving operation rescues. 

     Jim had an active mind and loved to work with his hands, so was always busy with work or various projects. He learned basic engine repair from his father. At the age of 11, he hung out at the neighborhood garage, continuing his hands-on education in auto mechanics. As a young adult, he worked for Douglas Motor Sales. He enjoyed restoring performance and vintage automobiles. 

     Jim was generous, donating his expertise to family, friends, and community, as well as money to loved ones and strangers in need. He loved the Whitins Reservoir. He was an avid swimmer there, and it was one of his favorite places to sail, as was Newport RI. After retirement from the police force, he married Dianne Beukema. He worked on an extensive renovation of their antique home, barn, and business in Connecticut. In the last few years living on a small farm, Jim developed his fondness for animals, learning to care for horses, goats, and pet dogs.

According to his wishes, he will be cremated, and his ashes spread over the Long Island Sound, this summer. A memorial gathering will be held at the Sokol Hall on Saturday, February 19, 2022 from 4:00–7:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations to Donate to Help My Brother Jim with his Medical Expenses (gofundme.com) will be much appreciated. To leave a condolence message for his family please visit: www.jackmanfuneralhomes.com and www.legacy.com .