Gerrit Jan Brakel

With heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of Gerrit Jan Brakel on June 19, 2025, at the age of 81. A beloved husband, a loving father and Opa, a cherished brother, a fun uncle, and a loyal friend to many.

Gerrit leaves behind his much-loved wife Atie; his daughter Joanne; his son Robert (Chérie); and his four adored grandchildren: Alexandre, Lachlan, Andrew, and Maëlle. He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings Ken (Betsy), Greta (Jake), and George along with many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Frens and Helen (1968), his beloved son Bryan (1972), his brothers Frank (2006) and Henk (2014), sister Diane (2021), and his parents-in-law Johanna (2009) and Jan Brik (1974).

Born on May 18, 1944, in Hoogeveen, Netherlands, Gerrit was the youngest of four children. In 1953, at the age of eight, he immigrated to Canada with his family, arriving in Halifax before settling in Transcona, where the family grew to include 3 more children. In 1968, Gerrit married Atie Brik, and together they shared 57 loving years and had three children.

At 17, Gerrit began his career in the construction industry, where he not only built structures, but stories. He took great pride in pointing out buildings around Winnipeg that he had worked on, each one carrying a memory. He retired in 2000 to prepare for his upcoming career as Opa.

Known as the life of the party, Gerrit brought joy to every family gathering. Whether wearing his signature napkin hats, hitting the dance floor with lively dance moves, or always having a joke at the ready, he made sure laughter was a part of the moment.

Family vacations across Canada and the U.S. were filled with adventure, laughter, stories, and lasting memories. Gerrit especially cherished spending time with his grandchildren, proudly cheering them on at their sports games, recitals, and concerts.

Generous with his time and talents, Gerrit was always ready to lend a hand by painting, building decks, or transforming spaces in his children’s homes. He was an active member of his apartment community, serving as board treasurer for many years as well as participating in countless social events. His grandkids could always rely on Opa for a ride. No matter the time or place, he was always there within minutes with a smile and keys in hand.

Gerrit’s warmth, humour, and quiet strength will be deeply missed, but the love he gave will live on in those who knew him.

A memorial service in honour of Gerrit’s life will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The service will take place at Covenant Christian Reformed Church, located at 653 Knowles Avenue. Pastor Evert Busink will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Amant Foundation in Gerrit’s memory.