Gilbert L. Melanson, 86, of Abington, passed away on March 5 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease.  He was the beloved husband of the late Margaret Moore Melanson.  Brother of F. Jean Kennedy of Quincy, and the late Rita Sargent of Florida.  He is survived by his children Gail DaPonte and Frank of Bermuda, Kevin Melanson and Allison of CA, Sue Gregory and Michael of Quincy, Michelle LaBelle of Halifax, Karen Fleischer and Ray of VA, Mark Melanson and Gwen of CA, Phil Melanson and Jane Wing of Weymouth, Brian Melanson and his partner Mark Perra of Quincy, Lisa Hall and Bill of WA.  Predeceased by his daughter Sandra Jean.  He is also survived by his nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Gil was married to the love of his life, Peg, for 56 years.  They enjoyed traveling, wintering in Bermuda, golf, sports, and their family and friends. Gil was a World War II veteran who served in Italy and enjoyed telling stories of his grand adventures.  He was a self-employed carpenter contractor who loved his work. Funeral from the Quealy & Son Funeral Home 116 Adams Street, Abington Monday March 11 at 8am followed by a funeral mass in St. Bridget Church, Abington 9am. Visitation Sunday 2 to 5pm. Interment Milton Cemetery, Milton. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association of MA.