72, of Paradise, NL, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the Victoria General Hospital in Halifax, NS on Saturday, January 26, 2008. He was born in Piccaire, NL on March 17, 1935 to Abram and Lucy Coombs. He was a member of the Holy Innocents Parish in Paradise, NL. Before retiring from 24 years of service at Oceanex, Gerald loved his job as Chief Mate on the Cavello and the ASL Sanderling and often recited fond memories of his many friends aboard the ship. He will forever be remembered for always helping his neighbors on Kestrel Drive and his love of homemade soups and sweets which they graciously provided for his many efforts. He will be fondly remembered for his very patient nature, soft-spoken words, the shuffling of his feet, his spontaneous emotionally-overwhelmed tears, and the pure eye-glistening delight of his role as Poppy Coombs. He was predeceased by his ever cherished companion, Shirley Smith, his parents Abram and Lucy Coombs, sister Mabel Smith (Coombs), brothers George and Loyal Coombs and nephew John Coombs. He is survived by his sister Pearl MacDonald (Coombs) of Hermitage, NL; his daughter Brenda Innes (Coombs) of Lower Sackville, NS; three grandchildren Karynne and Robby Innes, both of NS and Victoria O'Grady of St. John's, NL; several step-children, nieces, nephews and dear friends residing in NL, Alberta and NS. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at Carnell's Funeral Home, St. John's, NL on Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. and Wednesday 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Thursday at 11 a.m. in the Holy Innocents Church in Paradise, NL. Reception to follow in the parish. Donations in memory of Gerald can be made to the Parkinson Society Maritime Region c/o Brenda Innes by calling 1-800-663-2468. To send a message of condolence or to sign the memorial guest book, please visit www.carnells.com.