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GERALD HANDZIUK

GERALD CHARLES HANDZIUK June 22, 1950 - May 24, 2012 With great sadness, we share the passing of Gerald Charles Handziuk on May 24, 2012, in Grimsby, ON. Gerald, or Jerry as he was known, was born on June 22, 1950 and died at the age of 61. He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife and longtime friend, Nancy (nee Kranz). Loving father to Michelle (Craig), Caralyn (Scott), Jeff (Maria), and Justin; cherished grandpa to eight grandchildren; beloved son of Hildegarde and the late Charles Handziuk; son-in-law of Jan and Casey Huisman and the late Norman Kranz; dear brother of Roy (Carol), Joyce, Beverly (Reg), Gordon (Kristen), Deborah and the late John Handziuk. He will also be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews and extended family. Jerry was born and raised in Winnipeg, MB. He attended Elmwood High School, participated in Sea Cadets for many years and was a member of each of their marching bands. Jerry always enjoyed working with his hands with a natural ability to fix things. For many years he was employed as a mechanic, working with cars as much for work as for pleasure. Upon moving to Ontario in the late 1980s, he developed a new perspective on life. As a landscaper, he took great pride in his work and was known for his attention to detail and determination that all jobs be done well. He grew to be a person of few words yet appreciated long, meaningful conversations; was one who guided with quiet leadership yet knew when clear direction was needed; and allowed the peaceful person within himself to emerge. His mischievous giggle and crystal blue eyes will be greatly missed. His grandchildren always knew that Grandpa could be trusted to have great treats on hand. Jerry was a determined person and he battled his brief and intense illness in the same way he approached life -- fighting hard, quietly and on his own. This fight was greater than what he could give and he gently surrendered. The family would like to thank the staff at West Lincoln Memorial Hospital, Grimsby, ON, and extend a sincere thank you to Dykstra Landscaping and Greenhouses for all their support. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service was held on May 29, 2012, in Grimsby, ON. Family and friends are invited to remember and honour the life of Gerald on July 31, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. at Green Acres Funeral Home, No. 1 Highway East at Navin Road. A private interment will follow. For those who wish to express sympathy, please consider the Canadian Lung Association, Canadian Cancer Society or the Winkler Community Foundation, noting Katie Cares.

As published in the Winnipeg Free Press on July 28, 2012