Obituary of GERALD JOHN WALTERS

GERRY WALTERS We are sad to announce that just days after celebrating his 71st birthday, Gerry passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Saturday, December 21, 2019. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 48 years, Bonnie; daughters Krista (Carl) and Kerri (Ian); grandchildren Rosalie, Linden, and Frances; sister Janice (Dave); brothers-in-law Doug (predeceased by Lynda) and Allan (Marg); sisters-in-law Barb, Norma (Leo), and Helen (Dave); along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Gerry was born in Winnipeg December 17, 1948, to parents Sam and Emma. He spent his younger years playing baseball, hockey, and football, as well as trombone in the Elmwood high school band where he met Bonnie. Gerry’s love of sports was central to his life. He was a long-time Jets and Bombers fan, enjoyed following the NFL, coached juvenile hockey as a young adult, and played old timers’ hockey in East Elmwood for years prior to coaching and umping softball. Before taking an early retirement in 2002, Gerry worked his way up to Logistics and Merchandising Manager for the Terminal Elevator Division at Saskatchewan Wheat Pool, followed by Agricore. He always enjoyed traveling, and spent some of his favourite vacations in Orlando, Florida, where he made a group of friends who he remained connected with even when he was no longer able to travel. His greatest sources of happiness were his three grandchildren, who he loved visiting with and hearing about what made each of them happy and excited, so he could always share in their interests. The family are grateful to the wonderful staff at St. Boniface Hospital’s Palliative Care unit for keeping him comfortable at the end. Gerry will be remembered for his constant sense of humour, which sustained him up to his final days of life. There will be a celebration of Gerry’s life on Saturday, January 4, 1:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1800 Day Street in Transcona. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a no-kill animal shelter and St. Amant Autism Programs, honouring Gerry’s wishes.