Gary Alan Bertrand

Gary Alan Bertrand, affectionately known as “Bert” among his fellow boatmen, was born on October 8, 1963, in Port Arthur, Texas. He was raised in Nederland and Bridge City before eventually making his home in Groves, Texas.

Gary began his career on the water at just 17 years old, starting at the bottom of the ranks as a deckhand and working his way up through the industry to become a tugboat captain. The water wasn’t simply where he worked; it was where he felt at home. He spent much of his life on the waterways, though he drew a very firm distinction between working on a boat and vacationing on one. When the idea of a family cruise came up, his response was that it was like asking a mailman to take a walk on his day off.

Outside of work, Gary enjoyed hunting, fishing, motorcycles, playing guitar, and listening to classic rock. He had a particular appreciation for Stevie Nicks, whom he jokingly referred to as his girlfriend, much to his daughter’s childhood annoyance. What once earned an eye roll has since become a cherished family memory.

Gary also shared a special bond with his son Kasey through their work restoring a 1973 Chevrolet Nova. The project was about more than bringing an old car back to life. It was time spent together, a shared passion, and memories built one piece at a time. It was another chapter in the stories they will carry with them.

Gary was a phenomenal cook, known for his incredible steaks, gumbo, and his “pain perdu” was simply the best. He was also an avid lover of animals, particularly dogs and snakes, and found joy in the simple pleasures of good music, good food, and time spent with the people he loved.

For much of his life, evenings spent around a fire with music playing were a familiar scene. Gary had a favorite question for those gathered around him: “Hey, who sings this?” It was his way of turning a song into a little challenge, sharing his love of music and keeping everyone on their toes.

Gary was incredibly intelligent, had a genuine and contagious laugh, and possessed a charisma that made him a captivating storyteller. He had lived enough life to have plenty of stories, and he knew exactly how to tell them.

Friendship was something Gary took seriously. He maintained lifelong friendships and formed deep bonds with the men he worked alongside, many of whom became family in every sense of the word. He was fiercely loyal to his friends and would go to the ends of the earth for the people he loved. Wesley, Anthony, Bush, James, and his late friend Carlton were among those who held a special place in his life. These friendships were a meaningful part of his story and a testament to the loyalty he gave so freely.

As a grandfather, affectionately known as “Cappy,” Gary embraced the role with a mischievous spirit. He leaves his grandchildren with memories, stories, and undoubtedly a few tales of their own about the adventures and antics of their Cappy.

Gary leaves behind a family and circle of friends who will carry his laughter, stories, traditions, and memories with them for years to come.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Julie Marie Bertrand, née Doré; his children, Ashley Pittner and husband Adam, and Kasey Bertrand; and his beloved grandchildren, who knew him as “Cappy”: Sophia, Roland, Richard, and Margaret Pittner; Nathan Purgahn; Harley Bertrand; and Oliver Mallett.

He is also survived by his mother, Elsie Bertrand; his sisters, Tina Grantham and husband, Glenn; and Gina Bertrand and partner, Randall Harris; mother-in-law, Diana Doré; Crystal Bertrand, Aaron Norwood and Kaylee Ellis; and many other family members and loved ones.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Emmett Bertrand; his son, Corey Ryan Mallett; and his brother, Brian Bertrand.

A memorial service celebrating Gary’s life will be held at a later date. Details will be announced by the family.