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GERALD B. GRAY
Born: Sep 04, 1930
Date of Passing: Oct 08, 2010
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryGERALD B. GRAY It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Gerald B. (Gerry) Gray, age 80, in Winnipeg, on Friday, October 8, 2010. Gerry was predeceased by his wife, Mona, on June 11, 2001. He was predeceased also by his brother Abe of Vancouver, and his sister Shirley of Dublin, California. Gerry is survived by his children Sara, Michael, and Debbie, and by his sister Mitzi (Jacques). Gerry was born in Winnipeg's North End on September 4, 1930. He attended St. John's High School. Gerry lived his life with integrity, honesty, and dedication to family, community, and business. As CEO of Blackwoods Beverages Ltd., he led his organization to quality and excellence. The business became a model for success in the soft drink industry. Gerry was a strong supporter of the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg, United Way, Canadian Museum of Human Rights, and the Central Park renovation project. Gerry also contributed generously to a wide range of educational, arts, and health organizations in Manitoba and in Israel. Gerry loved the outdoors. He had been an avid fisherman and pilot. He enjoyed dining with family and friends, keeping up with current events, and reading - primarily politics, history, and business. A funeral was held on Wednesday, October 13, 2010 at Shaarey Zedek Synagogue, with interment at Shaarey Zedek Cemetery. Pallbearers were Mark Gray, Anthony Gray, Barry Sanders, Ken Sanders, Alan Daien, Richard Akman, and Ken Sleva. Honourary pallbearers were Sandy Sandomirsky, Gerald Kalef, Serena Kraayeveld, Donald Gales, and Peter Kains. Donations in Gerry's memory may be made to a charity of your choice.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 20, 2010
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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In 1988 I had the distinct pleasure to spend a considerable amount of time with Gerry, as he forged a new direction with Blackwood's Beverages. It was the time of the arrival of Snapple to augment the grip of Pepsi; determining the role if any that his children should have with the business (family was always such a vital consideration); moving from operating the business to passing the reigns to Arvid Petersen and being one of the anointed 9 Pepsi bottlers to consolidate the then I believe 62 in Canada. His caring; his generosity; his quiet and subtle humour are all imprinted in my psyche. Almost 30 years later, I can recall so many moments that I was able to enjoy with such a great man. I am only sorry that I was not aware of the family's loss until now and I sincerely hope that Debbie, Sarah and Michael are all doing well. - Posted by: John Platz (consultant) on: Nov 14, 2017
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Sarah, Debie, and Michael. Very late for me to find out. I met him by accident a few years ago in Illinois while he was traveling to Boston, I had the opportunity to expend a few hrs with him while I brought him to the airport, enough to see that he was an example as a person. He gave me his cell# I called a couple months to say hello but didn't succeed, so I googled the name. That's how I learned he was gone. But he will always be a light for your family and for Winnipeg. - Posted by: Eppie Rivas (Unknown) on: May 10, 2012
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Sarah, Debbie, Michael; It was with surprise and regret that I learned of your father's passing late last week while on vacation. Gerry was a good friend to my father and I feel great mentor and supporter for myself. I will never forget my time at Blackwood Beverages, building my career under the leadership of Mr. Grey or the many exciting times we shared. We wish you all the best during this time. Doug and Kim Gordon - Posted by: Douglas Gordon (Friend) on: Oct 18, 2010
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Dear Debbie, Sarah and Micheal: Our deepest and heartfelt sympathies to each of you and the entire Gray Family. We will always remember your father as such a sweet, gentle man and a true gentleman. We hope each of you will find comfort in the many wonderful memories of him and may his memory be a blessing always. Maggie, Sarah and Fred Morris - Posted by: Fred Morris (Friend) on: Oct 12, 2010