In loving memory ~

Gerry was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands in 1931. He emigrated to Canada when he was just 21 years old and became a Canadian citizen in 1963. He liked to call himself 'Gerry from Grande Prairie' as he had initially lived and worked the farm there with his sister, Agnes, and her husband. Later, he became a skilful drywaller, after starting as a 'boarder' in learning the trade with his brother, Ted. Gerry worked for many years in construction in the Lower Mainland. He often helped family members with renovation projects, even taking his grandchildren to work with him to learn the trade.

Gerry was predeceased by his parents, Abraham and Marie, wife Johanna, and her children, Ted and Lisette, brothers, Bill (Saskatchewan), Jan, Kees and Ben (Holland), and brother-in-law, Archie (Chilliwack). Gerry is survived by his brother, Ted (Trudy) in 91原创, and sisters, Agnes in Chilliwack, and Tiny, in Holland.

Gerry's stepchildren, Corrie (John) Kamloops, Jeanette (Ray) Summerland, John (Veronica) 91原创, stepdaughter-in-law, Brenda, and stepson-in-law, Ron, both in Mission, Jim (Ivy) Aldergrove and, Michelle (Gord) in Maple Ridge also survive him. Gerry's extended family includes 17 grandchildren (with many of whom he frequently did his Hup! Hup! Paardje'), and 28 great-grandchildren.

Gerry and Johanna were long-time residents of 91原创. He enjoyed their many yearly trips to Holland to visit family and friends there. He also worked hard to maintain his fitness with many walks and biking adventures. He gladly chauffeured Dutch visitors (and, Johanna) everywhere! And, that included their vegetable garden, babysitting the grandkids when needed, and the family 'soup loop' (as he called it) and, many other destinations, including Saskatchewan. He had an incredible zest for life and enjoyed 'everything and everything' of being part of his large, adopted family. Family functions and gatherings were always thoroughly enjoyed by 'Opa' Gerry, and when they were over, he commented on his enjoyment of them with great pleasure and a 'so now that is done too!'