Obituary of Gerald Maurice Rothaermel

GERALD MAURICE ROTHAERMEL

Born November 20, 1924, Gerald Rothaermel, our beloved and respected father, grandfather, father-in-law and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 28, 2018.

Proud of, and devoted to, his family, Gerry is survived by son Mark and his daughter-in-law Jilean Bell, and his daughter, Janis Chevreau; grandchildren Owen and Marina Rotharmel, and Graham and Caitlin Chevreau (fiancé Stephen Edwards). Predeceased by his loving wife, Lorraine, parents, Pearl and Earl Rothaermel and brother Owen.

As a young man growing up in Bridgeport, ON., Gerry was a quick, fit and accomplished hockey player, playing for the Waterloo Siskins prior to serving in the Canadian Air Force in WWII.  After the war, Gerry enjoyed a successful career, highlighted by meaningful, continuing friendships with colleagues and associates in the general insurance and marine business. Following many years of fishing and boating on Lake Huron, he developed a profound interest in professional powerboat racing, a sport that he passionately enjoyed with family. Near or far, Gerry was drawn to water and had many special moments on or around it – whether sailing in offshore seas, steadying a boat for the start of an F1 Grand Prix or relaxing with family and friends at his cottage on the Bruce Peninsula.

During his 93 years, Gerry led an active and balanced life, delighted by and appreciative of, warm friendships and adored pets. Traveling with wisdom and a caring heart, he put his best foot forward, fully engaged with those he was with. A consummate gentleman, Gerry’s steadfast reliability and thoughtful advice was always sincere.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Gerry’s life at a Remembrance Service to be held at Lawrence Park Community Church, 2180 Bayview Avenue, Toronto M4N 3K7 on Thursday, August 2^nd at 11:00 a.m. Reception immediately following.  A private interment service will take place later at Woodland Cemetery in Kitchener.

The family wishes to thank the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre, caregivers and staff of LGSE and K3E for their compassionate care. As expressions of sympathy, please consider donations to the Sunnybrook Foundation (416-480-4483 or www.sunnybrook.ca/foundation) recognizing cognitive support.  Condolences, photographs and memories may be forwarded through www.humphreymilesnewbigging.com.