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VICTOR GERBASI Obituary pic

VICTOR GERBASI

Born: Oct 31, 1943

Date of Passing: Nov 14, 2020

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VICTOR GERBASI
October 31, 1943 - November 14, 2020

It is with profound sadness, that we announce the passing of Vic Gerbasi, aged 77 years, on November 14.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife Rose; son Tony; brother Gerry, (Sharon); as well as many aunts, cousins, and in-laws. Vic was predeceased by his mother Yvette, and his father Eligio.
Vic was born in Jasper, AB in 1943. Subsequently his family moved to Winnipeg and it was in Winnipeg where he grew up.
He was active in sports, playing hockey, baseball, and lacrosse with much enthusiasm. He also had a well-developed work ethic, and while in high school worked at Polo Park
exercising racehorses in the mornings before going to school. It is this job that further developed his deep love of all things equine, though he had to wait many years before he was able to purchase his very own horse. That horse was an Egyptian Arabian named Shalyar, still alive at 34 years of age. But his love of horses didn't stop with one. Vic owned Peruvian Paso horses and was active in the local Peruvian Paso Association. He also owned two Haflinger horses, Jack and Benny. Vic trained Benny to pull a cart and often he and Benny could be seen driving down the road in the Birds Hill Park locale where he and Rose both lived.
As a young man, Vic joined the Canoe Club; a significant move because this was where he met his wife Rose. Here he also golfed, played racquet ball, and on weekends, went on canoe trips with fellow paddlers, enjoying the beauty of Manitoba and Ontario's pristine lakes.
Professionally, Vic trained as a Radiology Technician and then went on to work as a consultant selling medical equipment. His profession took him to different corners of the world, as he volunteered for humanitarian eye surgery missions in various places such as Belize, Panama, and Greece.
Vic was a very sociable and outgoing individual. While working as a pharmaceutical representative, he joined the "Drug Rangers". This genial group of colleagues developed into close friendships. They shared hotel rooms together while on working trips, they golfed together, and generally, they had a good time, sharing jokes and much laughter.
Vic had an active and sharp mind. There was nothing he enjoyed more than having a good, lively discussion on a range of topics, especially local politics, which was often
discussed at length.
His heart was as generous and large as his mind was sharp. He was the first to welcome newcomers to the neighbourhood, or to offer help to anyone. He'd come "right tool in hand" to help you. He'd lend you any of his tools, he had many, but you had to "bring it back", after all you never know when others would need that tool down the road.
He had a short, but hard fought battle with cancer.
Vic didn't like to be fussed over and in keeping with his wishes, there will be no service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba.

Friends and family may share memories by visiting Victor's memorial page at seasonsfunerals.ca

Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 21, 2020

Condolences & Memories (19 entries)

  • Sorry Rosie for your loss and to your son Tony - may God grant you peace at this difficult time and keep his spirit alive within you both Luv from an old paddler Suz - Posted by: Suzanne Thomas (old friend) on: Dec 07, 2020

  • Dear Rose and Tony, I am so sorry about your loss. The news of Vic's passing came as a shock and my thoughts are with you. I first met Vic in August 2016 when you picked me up fron Winnipeg Airport. He turned out be the best host dad I could have wished for. Vic taught me how to change tires and how to eat hamburgers the right way, he showed me the Northern Lights and even let me drive his car. He was such a kind-hearted man and I will always remember his great sense of humour. I am very thankful that I had the opportunity to share a year and later on some visits with the three of you. Condolences also from Jan and my parents. Ruhe in Frieden, lieber Vic. - Posted by: Jutta and family (exchange student) on: Nov 29, 2020

  • We are so sorry to learn of Vic’s passing. It was always nice to have a chat with him. Your neighbour hood parties were always pleasant. Always helpful, Don fondly remembers first meeting Vic, when Vic and Ted pulled Don’s garden tractor out of the mud. Good guy, we will miss him. - Posted by: Dorothy Shuturma (Friends & Neighbours) on: Nov 28, 2020

  • Dear Rose, Tony and family, It has been many years since we relocated to Vancouver. Even so we have many fond memories of long ago friendships. We recall our visits at Falcon Lake spearfishing, times out on the catamaran and BBQ gatherings in the city. We always enjoyed the parties at your home and to this day laugh thinking about Vic when he had had enough. He just donned his PJ’s and wished us all a good night. Victor always spoke his mind! We are pleased to read he lived his passion. Our hearts and thoughts are with you now. Lorne & Karen irvine. - Posted by: Lorne & Karen Irvine (Friends) on: Nov 25, 2020

  • My sympathy to you and Tony, Rose. Please know your friends are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. We know you will have many happy memories to bring you comfort and peace at this time. With love, Helen Whetter - Posted by: Helen Whetter (Friend) on: Nov 23, 2020

  • Vic was a good friend that Cathy and I will miss dearly. Had many chats over a couple of his "ginger beers" that he loved. Vic would lend a hand to anyone at the drop of a hat and as many have said, "you better bring the tools back". Vic and I had many great laughs together while enroute to PA or Peavy's to do Vic's shopping as he was always looking to buy another tool that he thought he needed. He quietly fought a courageous battle and never complained about his illness. Seems the good Lord calls the "good ones" and Vic definitely fit that description to a "T". Rest in Peace my friend and while don't know where or when, we will meet again. Take care bros. Ron and Cathy Bylo - Posted by: ron bylo (Good Friend) on: Nov 23, 2020

  • We were so shocked and saddened to hear of Vic’s passing. We spent many wonderful times together with the paddling group at the Winnipeg Canoe club when we were young, paddling, camping, having sing songs, and generally having a great time. Vic was a great storyteller. To this day we still laugh about Vic’s story of Vic and Rose’s first dog wanting to sleep with them because it was afraid of thunder and then trying to push Vic out of bed. That was the end of being nice to the dog during storms! Vic was always thoughtful, willing to help and just a great guy who left a lasting impression; obviously since we’ve not seen him in forty years and we still remember him well and fondly. Our condolences and sincere best wishes to Rose and family. Cliff and Marilyn Zarecki - Posted by: Cliff and Marilyn Zarecki (Friend) on: Nov 23, 2020

  • Dear Rose and family. Please accept my deepest condolences on your loss. The Vic I remember, loved his family and friends, was generous and always up for a good time. May your memories of him, sustain you through your profound loss. - Posted by: Marjorie Dawson (Friend) on: Nov 22, 2020

  • We lived far apart but whenever we were in Winnipeg we always got in touch and Vic always received us with a big welcome and his generous hospitality. I shall always be grateful to Vic because he pressured me into accompanying him to a fictitious Winnipeg nurses party, where I met Gloria my very own Manitoban. Vic came to Italy (where we were then living ) with other Winnipeg friends and a good time was had by all. It is some 50 + years since we first met and exactly a year since we last met up in Winnipeg, the memories are all good. We shall miss him. Mike & Gloria - Posted by: Mike & Gloria Dadd (friends) on: Nov 22, 2020

  • I was very shocked and saddened to read about Butch . He was one of my older cousins so did not spend a lot of time with him .but I do remember many stories from my mother Aunt Louise. From the Guenther family I send condolences to Rose and Tony. Rest In Peace Butch - Posted by: Susan Gill (Cousin) on: Nov 21, 2020

  • Sorry to hear of the loss of such a good man. A life well lived, but, caught short. - Posted by: Lois Keizer (Old friend) on: Nov 21, 2020

  • I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your husband, Rose. It was nice to reconnect with you at the weaver’s guild. My thoughts are with you. Barb Roney - Posted by: Barbara Roney (Smale) (High school friend ) on: Nov 21, 2020

  • Condolences to the Gerbasi family from the Rodgers clan. (Old friends from Walker Ave.) Butch was a good guy and along with Gerry, Leo and Yvette, were great friends to our family. Rest in peace with Mom and Dad. - Posted by: Grant Rodgers (Friend) on: Nov 21, 2020

  • Even though Evelyn and I have not been in touch for many years, we certainly have not forgotten our good times together. With great sadness we send our condolences to you Rose and your family. - Posted by: Stan & Evelyn Bergen (Friends ) on: Nov 21, 2020

  • I am absolutely stunned and sorry to hear of Vic's sudden passing. My late husband Ron and I knew Vic for years. Ron through the Drug Rangers and myself through my nursing position at St. B and HSC Vic was a wonderful, friendly guy who was always willing to help out. We will miss him and his good nature and friendly manner. Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss, my heart breaks for you. We lost Ron to cancer in June 2002 very suddenly so I can feel your pain. Thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers. Most Sincerely, Carole Rickey - Posted by: Carole Rickey (friend ) on: Nov 21, 2020

  • Al and I offer our condolences, Rose, he will be missed. We are so glad that we visited him, when he came to pick up his brother's car, a couple of years ago. Al doesn't understand now, but at that visit they remembered some of the " good " old days. I appreciate this is a difficult time, Rose, But would love to hear from you in the future. Marilyn Good - Posted by: Marilyn Good (Friend) on: Nov 21, 2020

  • Dear Rose, Tony & family, We were saddened to hear of Vic's passing today. We were old neighbours in St. Vital before we moved to BC. Vic was a super neighbour and the obit said it all. We remember when Vic overloaded his new wood burning fireplace and a burning log rolled out onto the carpeted floor. He just threw it back into the fire and continued on as if nothing had happened. Of course carpet was replaced by insurance. We had lots of great memories on that street. Even though we have not seen each other in some time we want to express our deep condolences. Don & Diane Hardie, Courtenay, BC - Posted by: Don & Diane Hardie (friends) on: Nov 21, 2020

  • I am so very sorry. I miss his visits as I worked with Dr Gooi ophthalmology. He was such a delight and pleasure to be around! Bless you all and hold tight the memories he leaves us with Til we meet again Be well and take care xox - Posted by: Karen evans (Friend ) on: Nov 21, 2020

  • Very sorry to hear of Vic’s passing. We worked together in the O.R. at Misericordia. Always willing to come in when we had complex eye surgeries where we needed technical help in regards to equipment. He was a lot of fun socially, always offering a joke whether you wanted to hear it or not!!! When I needed a “dolly” to move some stuff for my kitchen floor he was first in line to offer me his, but yes he needed it back!! I didn’t know Vic was sick, as you said kind of a private person, but I wish I did , we could have had coffee together before he passed as I know he loved to do that. Condolences to his family - Posted by: Leah (Friend) on: Nov 21, 2020

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