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Dog Alerts Rescuers to Couple Lost on Icy River
20 Feb
Summary
- A foundation is established to honor the couple and continue their charity.
- The couple fell through ice on Bee's River while walking their dog.
- Their dog's distress alerted first responders to the tragedy.
The daughters of Kathleen and Gerard Boucher, a couple who tragically passed away after falling through ice on Cape Cod, are establishing "Kit & Jerry's Foundation for Good." This foundation is dedicated to honoring their parents' legacy of "vibrant energy and steady generosity" and will continue their charitable endeavors. A GoFundMe page is temporarily available for donations while the nonprofit corporation is finalized.
The Eastham couple fell through the ice of the Bee's River at First Encounter Beach during a Saturday morning walk with their dog, Casey. Two officers also entered the frigid water while attempting to rescue Kathleen Boucher, who was heard screaming for help. Divers later found Kathleen, 71, a retired kindergarten teacher, but it was too late.
Gerard Boucher, 72, a retired Connecticut Natural Gas employee, remains missing despite extensive searches involving drones and aircraft. The couple, who moved to Eastham in 2008, were active in retirement, with Gerard volunteering as a handyman and delivering essential items, while Kathleen enjoyed nature walks, photography, and animal welfare advocacy.
The inspiration for the foundation emerged when the daughters discovered their father's notebook filled with plans to fund a Hyannis emergency shelter and procure equipment for the Brazilian Resource Center. The foundation will support these causes in Gerard's name and include future projects for animal shelters in Kathleen's honor and a nod to their beloved dog, Casey.
