Gerald Stewart Heath died peacefully at Southlake Regional Health Centre on Wednesday, October 4, 2017, surrounded by family. He will be deeply missed by his wife Raymonde, children Jo Ann (Terry) and Sandra (Paul), and grandsons James and Andrew. Gerry will be remembered as a loving family man who adored his wife, cherished his daughters, and took pride in his grandsons. He enjoyed being around children and was always willing to dedicate time to them. The games he created form some of the fondest memories for his daughters and grandchildren.

Born in Sherbrooke, Quebec on September 23, 1933, the son of George and Harriett (Mottram) Heath and survived by his sister Gertrude. Gerry attended Bishop’s University on a Math/Physics scholarship and left to begin his career with Household Finance Corporation. There he met Ray, the love of his life. They married on September 3, 1956, a union lasting 61 years. Gerry and Ray lived in Pointe Claire, Quebec for over 30 years, where they formed lifelong friendships. In 1993, they moved to Newmarket, Ontario to be closer to their family.

Gerry was a man of many talents who gave his all to everything that captured his interest. He was an accomplished artist, bridge life master, avid trout fisherman, badminton player, a talented soapstone sculptor, jazz fan and drummer. Gerry had a real fondness for his home province of Quebec and was a diehard fan of the Montreal Expos and Alouettes. His happiest times were spent cottaging in the Laurentians with family and friends.

In 1984 Gerry retired from his executive position in human resources at HFC to pursue his passion as an artist, establishing a successful second career. His paintings have been exhibited in one-man shows and in numerous group art exhibitions including the Buckhorn Wildlife Art Festival. They are featured in many private and corporate collections. Gerry’s paintings captured the eye of visitors to his home and he delighted in discussing his art with those who took an interest.

Raymonde and family would particularly like to thank Laurie Fisher at CCAC, Dr. Gabor, and the care staff at Sunrise Aurora.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Roadhouse & Rose Funeral Home, 157 Main Street South, Newmarket, Ontario on Sunday, October 22, 2017 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Interment to take place at Elmwood Cemetery, Sherbrooke, Quebec. Condolences and memories may be forwarded through www.roadhouseandrose.com