BIDDEFORD — Gerry (Gerard) G. Paul, 90, of Biddeford, passed away on Monday, Jan. 27, 2015 at the Maine Veteran’s Home in Scarborough.

He was born on Oct. 1, 1924 in Biddeford to Delphis and Cordelia (Gregoire) Paul.

Gerry served in the Army during World War II and was on one of the first boats to land at Omaha Beach. After the war, his brother Henry opened Paul’s Diner at Five Points in Biddeford, where Gerry and his brothers worked. The diner was passed down from brother to brother until Gerry closed it when he retired in 1987 after being open 40 years. In its early years the diner was “the” place to go for a meal after dancing on the Pier at Old Orchard Beach.

Gerry’s passions in life included cribbage, which he learned to play in the Army and taught his children and grandchildren as soon as they were old enough to learn the game. The game was played at all family gatherings and he played almost every day of his life until he became ill.

He also enjoyed fishing and his huge backyard garden. He loved to work the soil and share his bounty with family and friends. Most of all, he loved being with his family. He was always happy when he was surrounded by his family or rocking a baby.

He is predeceased by: his siblings, Henry, John, Jeanette, and Albert.

He is survived by: his wife, Pauline F. Paul of Biddeford, whom he claimed he would marry the first time he saw her in 1946; a son, Frank Paul of Kennebunk; daughters, Sandra Paul of South Portland, and Gale Bellew of Florida; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, who he rocked as babies at every opportunity.

A memorial for Gerry will be held on Monday March 2, from 4”“7 p.m. at Cote Funeral Home, 87 James St., Saco. Burial with military honors will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Maine Veteran’s Home, 290 U.S. Route 1, Scarborough, ME 04074.