Gerard "Gerry" Albert Vercaemert, affectionately known as Bonpa, was born on a tobacco farm in Izegem, Belgium. He was a serious student frequently earning top rank in his Catholic School class. After surviving German occupation of his home during WWII, he studied engineering in Ostend, Belgium. Upon graduation Gerard married Judith Philomene Delva and began his career in the Belgian Congo where their two sons were born. He subsequently worked briefly in Belgium, then in Morocco where their daughter was born. Gerard’s adventurous spirit, drive to offer his children good educations, and admiration of American capitalism landed him a job in Charlotte, N.C. He continued a successful career in the textile industry as a consultant traveling in Western Europe, Africa, and the Middle East then as an executive in Greenville, S.C. Gerard earned an MBA while working and a Master of Computer Engineering degree in retirement, both Summa Cum Laude. His love of learning never waned as he continued to audit various classes and read voraciously as long as he was able. One of Gerard’s proudest moments was becoming an American citizen at 79 years old, as soon as Belgium allowed dual citizenship.
Gerard passed away peacefully at home with longtime companion, Rosa Rios, by his side. He was predeceased by his wife, Judith Vercaemert Delva; his parents, Henri and Martha Vercaemert and four siblings. He is survived by his children, Dominique (Karen) Vercaemert, Philippe (Carol) Vercaemert and Catherine Vercaemert; grandsons, Christopher (Lauren) Herold, Patrick (Jenny) Herold and Nathan Vercaemert; great-grandsons, Peter and John Herold and many nieces and nephews.
An inurnment service will be held at Forest Lawn West Cemetery, 4601 Freedom Drive, Charlotte, N.C., on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, Gerard would be most honored by your gifts to support someone's education.
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