Augusta- Gerard A. Tardiff, 50, of Augusta died peacefully Thursday, May 25, 2006 at Maine General Medical Center in Augusta after a courageous battle against liver cancer.

He was born in Augusta on March 24, 1956, the son of the late Victor C. Tardiff Sr. and Theresa (Breton) Tardiff.

Gerry was a self-employed professional painter prior to his illness. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, Harness Racing and watching sports with his brothers. He loved life and he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Gerry was a loving father to two children. Survivors include his daughter Crystal (Tardiff) Caron of West Gardiner, his son Gerry Tardiff Jr. who works in Africa as a Development Instructor, their mother Cecile Tardiff of Virginia, two grandchildren Tyler Caron and Kaleb Caron of West Gardiner, his sister Lorraine Wilson of Belgrade; brothers Victor C. Tardiff Jr. of Chelsea; Rodney Tardiff of Chelsea; and Michael Tardiff of Chelsea, his best friend and long-time companion Diane Nickerson of Augusta and her daughter Jennifer Nickerson of Portland and by several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and special friends.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 31st at the Kincer Funeral Home 130 Pleasant St. Richmond.

After the service, a gathering will be held at Lisa's (Bravo's) on Bangor St. in Augusta.