Gerald Russell Woodruff

Loving husband to Norma for over 65 years. Beloved father to Cathy, Cindy (Victor Horvath), Russell and Maryann (Troy Davidson). Devoted Granpa to Christopher (Miranda), Dana (Dani), Nathan (Jill), Jacob, Lucas and Great Granpa to Brooklyn and Benjamin. He will be sadly missed by long time family friend Carolyn Zinck and his furbaby Simon. He will also be missed by his nieces, nephews, extended family and many, many friends.

Gerald had a good life. Born in northern Ontario, his family later moved to Toronto. That’s where he met Norma through her father, who used to give him a drive to work. They moved to Bramalea in the early 70’s with two small children in tow; two more followed a few years later. Gerald owned a successful electroplating company for many years and later worked at Canwell as a lift operator, retiring approximately 20 years ago. For many years, he was a body builder and in the last few years was still enjoying his daily workouts at Earnscliffe Recreation Centre. His workouts were always followed by a cup of coffee and/or soup at Sam’s, his favourite local eatery. In his retirement, he discovered a love for reading; Stephen King, James Patterson and John Grisham being his favourites. Gerald also loved country music and enjoyed a good glass of red wine.

At Gerald’s request, there will be no service and a private family celebration of life will be held on Father’s Day.

There are so many great memories with my Dad that I'll cherish forever. I remember that when ever I wanted something all I had to say is “Daddy can you buy me this?” and Friday night he would take to the mall or give me the money. He always was looking out for his children; the last time was a few months ago when he told me to make sure I had my car checked out as soon as I got to Windsor.

Miss you Dad. Fly high with the angels.

Love,Cathy xoxo

He was the strongest man I ever knew. When I was small he looked like a giant. He took me to my first Leafs game and got me hooked on hockey He also took me to my first Jay's game and my first wrestling matches at The Gardens. He's the one that made me a fan of James Bond and I'm the one that got him hooked on Marvel movies. He taught me how to drive in that big green van he used to have. He bought me my first beer when I turned 19 and when I cut my arm open at work he sat in the emergency room until 4am waiting for me to get stitches. The last time I talked to him in the hospital he said he knew he wasn't coming home and he wanted me to look after Mom and that he loved me. I mostly miss him at night because I didn't realize how much I needed the TV playing until 3 in the morning to fall asleep. He could be a grumpy old man when he wanted to be but I loved him and I miss him.

Rest in Peace Dad

Love,Russell

Dad,

My mind still talks to you. My heart still looks for you. My soul knows you are at peace. I am truly grateful to have had the most amazing, funny, caring, compassionate, encouraging, loyal and loving man I have ever known in my life. I am even prouder to have been able to call you my "Dad".

You knew me for only part of your life. I knew you my whole life.I will miss you the rest of my life.

If there is a more powerful word than "Love" to describe how I feel about you, it still wouldn't be powerful enough!

Always and Forever, your baby!

Maryann