Gerry passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in his 98th year. He is predeceased by the love of his life, Aline Giselle (Poirier) of 54 years of marriage, whom he met in Joliette, Quebec.
Gerry was a loving father to his three children: Brian Whittaker (Diana), Susan Whittaker Schmidt (David) and Sharon Whittaker (Robert Andrews). He was the beloved Grandad to his five grandchildren Kathryn, Benjamin, Erin, Lidija and Eva and seven great-grandchildren. Gerry was predeceased by his parents Fred Whittaker (Lillian Sturman) and sisters Patricia Peters (Hanley), and Joan Reed (Garth).
Gerry’s parents emigrated from England to Magog, Quebec where he was born on May 30, 1927. At the age of 18 years, while living with his family in the U.S.A., he was drafted into the Army towards the end of World War II,and posted to the Panama Canal. He was a graduate of Shawinigan Technical Institute and loved working with his hands as an accomplished draftsman, woodworker, plumber and electrician. His career included employment at CIL Montreal, HG Acres, Foster Wheeler, and Stelco.
Gerry moved his family to Niagara-on-the-Lake in 1962. His passion and commitment to serve his community, and experience as a volunteer firefighter, eventually earned him the position of the town’s first full-time Fire Chief. As a long time resident, Gerry also served on NOTL’s Hospital Board, was a leading member of the Niagara Regional Fire Buffs, and participated in many town initiatives. Our Dad was an honest, gentle-natured husband and father, devoted to his family, friends, and community. His unwavering, on-call dedication in helping others, will be fondly remembered and sorely missed by everyone who knew him.
The family would like to express our thanks to all of the staff at Woodlands of Sunset Regional Long term care home in Welland for their care and dedication to Gerry and all the residents!
The family will receive friends at MORGAN FUNERAL HOME, 415 Regent Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, on Monday, March 17, 2025, from 2-5 p.m. Cremation has taken place, and a private family interment will follow later. Donations in memory of Gerry may be directed to the ALS or Alzheimers Societies of Canada. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.morganfuneral.com