GERARD (JERRY) DEBAETS

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GERARD (JERRY) DEBAETS December 30, 1927 - April 30, 2011 Peacefully on April 30, 2011, in his sleep and with his family at his side, after a courageous battle with cancer, Gerard passed away at the age of 83. Jerry was loved by many and will be greatly missed, especially by his wife Elizabeth (Elsie) and his children: Bryon, Douglas (Gloria), Gary (JoAnne); his grandchildren: Cameron, Kevin (Audra), Jeffrey, Erin, Justin, Krystle, Rachelle, as well as his great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his sisters: Julia Guilbault and Germaine Wilson; sisters-in-law: Mary (John) Page and Margaret (Frank) Forsey, many nieces and nephews - all held dear. Jerry retired from Eaton's after 21 years of service. He was a modest, compassionate, practical and religious man who was a dedicated husband and father. Jerry was thankful that his family was healthy and grateful for the treasured moments that he spent with his beloved wife, Elsie, enjoying the tranquil landscape of their small acreage in South Transcona. Over the years he spent happy times with Elsie travelling to visit relatives in California, Indiana, British Columbia and enjoyed summers at their cottage in Grand Beach. On their 40th anniversary, they celebrated with a trip to Hawaii. The family thanks the compassionate and caring doctors, nurses and staff at St. Boniface Hospital Palliative Care. In keeping with Jerry's wishes, cremation has taken place and a funeral mass will be held on Thursday, May 5 at 11:00 a.m. in St. Joseph The Worker Parish, 505 Brewster St. Interment will follow in Transcona Cemetery. Memorial donations in Jerry's name, may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 193 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB R3C 2B7. He hath awakened from the dream of life - Shelley The Coutu family in care of arrangements: E. J. COUTU CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald St. 253-5086

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 04, 2011