July 13, 1943 - February 25, 2011 - Gerald passed away peacefully at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital on Friday, February 25, 2011. Gerald loved and was loved by his wife, Joanne, of nearly 45 years. Loving father of Carolyn (Bernard), Andrew (Gale), David (Sarah), and Stephen (Kelly). Wonderful “Grampy” to Madeline, William, Callum, Seth, Isaac, Samuel, Daniel, Jackson, and Mitchell. Faithful son to Annie Lindsay, brother to siblings, Phyllis (Raymond), Dale (Linda), Barbara (Dwight), and Cathy (Earl). Gerald was born & raised in Rusagonis, NB. His childhood was a happy one and reminisced fondly that there was never a dull moment where, “we were never bored!” He had particularly happy memories of the years he spent growing up on Grampy Moore’s farm. Gerald was a thoughtful student and completed his post-secondary studies, graduating from Sunbury-West Regional High School. Short years later, in 1966, Gerald took a stock-room job with the New Brunswick Telephone Company. This job opportunity soon developed into gainful employment and a full-fledged career. “Gerry” -his NBTel alias -ended up a company man, working 34 years with NBTel, retiring in 2000. He thoroughly enjoyed his years with the company, having completed a long and satisfying career, making countless friends & acquaintances along the way. Gerald has always been quite a tinkerer. From automobiles, to yard work, to household stuff, he was always in demand as the resident handy-man. In addition, had a habit of providing haircuts to anyone willing to sit in the chair. He wasn’t a trained barber by any means, but his price was hard to beat! Gerald enjoyed various woodworking projects, particularly those for his family. Additionally, he was a very capable cook. He could certainly bring home the bacon and fry it too. Gerald’s life was completely oriented around his deep faith in Jesus Christ, and a commitment to service through the local church. Gerald was a lifelong member of the Rusagonis Baptist Church, and later, The Meeting Place in Fredericton. Passionate about the Church, throughout his life Gerald has served in nearly every capacity imaginable, all with with a contagious commitment and joy. Gerald’s faith in God affected every part of his life, particularly through these last few months. Through this recent season of struggle & illness his faith only deepened, and his certainty of eternal hope never more sure. While his gentle demeanor and sweet spirit will be sorely missed, we know he is at perfect rest in the presence of the Saviour. As such, we’ve never said “goodbye,” only, “see you later...” He enjoyed a close relationship with his kids and grandkids and loved spending time with them.
The family will receive friends at the Rusagonis Baptist Church, 4 Whittaker Road, Rusagonis, NB, on Tuesday, March 1st from 2 to 4PM and 7 to 9PM. A funeral service will be held at the same location on Wednesday, March 2, commencing at 2PM. In lieu of flowers, donation made to the Canadian Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated. www.keirsteads.ca