Devoted husband to Grace, the love of his life for 49 years. Proud father of sons Andrew and Christopher and daughter-in-law Sonia and Opa to Michael (10), Abigail (8) and Zachary (5).
He is predeceased by his parents Erna and George Volkening, his sisters Sigrid Zimmerman (Michael) and Marlies Kuczak (Irwin) and parents-in-law Charles and Josephine Ricottone.
Gerry worked for Citizenship and Immigration Canada for over 35 years, starting with a summer job at the Peace Bridge at the age of 18. In 2002, Gerry received the prestigious Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal for excellence in his field.
Gerry was an avid photographer and honed his craft in his many travels with Grace, visiting over 80 countries and fostering friendships with fellow travelers, many of whom have become lifelong friends. When he was not taking pictures of icebergs or the Taj Mahal, his grandchildren, whom he adored, became his precious subjects.
Gerry will be sadly missed by sisters-in-law Linda Meyer (Bob deceased) and Josette Roque; Aunt Angie and Uncle Neil Harmer; Nephews and nieces Irene Zimmerman (Sam Longo), Monica Arkell (Paul), Harry Kuczak (Kelly), Rose Glenister, Ursula, Peggy and Heidi Kuczak, Emma Arkell, Laura, Aislyn and Kayley Pearson and Joseph Roque.
Gerry also leaves behind many cousins and a multitude of friends.
In spite of Gerry’s stroke in 2020 and the many challenges it posed, it did not define his life. With the help and support of caregivers and love of his family, Gerry was able to live his fullest life.
A Celebration of Gerry’s Life will be held on Sunday, June 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. with Words of Remembrance at 2p.m. at Thompson’s Funeral Home, 530 Industrial Parkway S. Aurora ON. Gerry would want everyone to be comfortable, Ties Not Required!
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to The Heart and Stroke Foundation.
“The loss is immeasurable but so is the love you left behind"
Thomas Campbell
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