GERARDUS (GERRY) THEODORUS KOOIMAN

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GERARDUS (GERRY) THEODORUS KOOIMAN July 25, 1925 - May 16, 2009 The family of Gerry Kooiman is deeply saddened to announce his passing on May 16, 2009 at the age of 83. Gerry is survived by his loving wife, Lillian and two sons, Martin (Tammy) and Gerard (friend Beth). Four stepchildren, Jeff Johnson (Shawna), David Johnson, Rod Johnson and Judy Johnson-Lemire. His grandchildren, Ashley and Kyla. His stepgrandchildren, Tyler (BC), Tara (Terry), Jerret, Michael, Rebecka, Jen, Dale (Shaneen), Jason. Great-great-granddaughter Madison. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Agnes Carling (Winnipeg), Vera Angel (YK), Eva Johnson (ON), Sonia Raynak (ON) and Auntie Nat Graham. Many nieces throughout Canada and the world. Gerry was predeceased by his first wife, Mary; his parents, Cornelius and Debbora Kooiman and 11 brothers and sisters, all in the Netherlands. Gerry has served on numerous committies, such as The Milk Producers board, St. Emile's Church as a greeter, Knights of Columbus council 8221 (Best ticket seller), Belgian Club (bowling), Royal Canadian Legion Belgian branch 109 and Transcona branch #7. He loved all his family very much as they loved him. We will miss Papa always. His pride at being a Canadian was only surpassed by the fact that he had truly lived the Canadian dream. He had a silly sense of humour and a zest for life. A proud man with a tough exterior, he was a good, honest, hard working man. Gerry led by example when it came to hard work. He believed that anyone could accomplish anything, if they rolled up their sleeves, put their back into it and did not give up. Friends of Martin and Gerard will never forget the booming voice of Mr. Kooiman during their teenage years. Prayers will be said at St. Emile Church (556 St. Anne's Rd.), Thursday, May 21 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Emile Church on Friday, May 22 at 11:00 a.m. Officiating Father Lucien Roy and Father Rene Peeters. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Deaf Centre of Manitoba at #101-285 Pembina Hwy., Winnipeg, MB R3L 2E1. GLEN LAWN FUNERAL HOME 982-7550

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 20, 2009