John was born on January 31, 1928 in Paks, Hungary to Istvan and Zsuzsanna Gerlei. He came to Canada in 1952, first working the tobacco fields before finding work logging. He stayed in the logging industry for a few years and then became a machinist. He worked for the local paper mill, in Fort Frances, for many years before retiring at 65. He was a man who lived a quiet life, he loved being part of the LaVallee Community and enjoyed frequent fishing trips with his family.
He leaves behind his wife of 62 years Margit; children Susan Buxton (Gordon) of London, ON, John Gerley (Deb) of Devlin, ON and Stephen Gerley (Dorothy) of Crozier, ON; grandchildren Geoff Gerley (Jenna), Andrew Gerley (Terri), Jacqueline Williams (Scott), Samantha Buma (Jonathan), and Alexa Pressey (Kevin); and great grandchildren Josh, Gabe and Hannah Gerley, Kayden, Jackson, MacKenzie and Jordyn Gerley, Thomas, Tyler and Lucas Williams and Ridley Buma; niece and nephews Arpad Csanyi, Christine Gerley and Steven Gerley.
John was predeceased by his parents Istvan and Zsuzsanna; brother Steven and sister Susan.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 4, 2019 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Fort Frances, Ontario with Father Alan Albao officiating. Luncheon at the church to follow.
The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of LaVerendrye General Hospital for their care and kindness shown to John and his family during his illness.
Due to his ongoing medical issues, John was a frequent recipient of blood transfusions so please, in memory of John, consider becoming a blood donor.
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