Gerald Michael Desjardins

Gerald passed away in his 96th year on Friday, October 28, 2022. A caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his children, Michael (Patricia Maynard), Paul (Gail), John (Adrienne) all of Toronto, Anne Marie (Tom Peirce) of Ancaster, Elizabeth (Ralph Walicki) of Calgary and his grandchildren, Michael, Jack, Madeline, Alex, Sean, and Chris. He was predeceased by his loving wife Marie Cecilia, his parents, Rene and Josie, and brother Ted.

Gerald graduated from the University of Toronto with an Electrical Engineering Degree in 1949, which shaped his 40-year career with the City of Toronto. He lived a full life, which included raising five children and summers at Lake Simcoe. Gerald was a lifelong learner, starting his retirement by earning an Arts degree from U of T. This fostered his creative side, and Gerald was well known for his cards, poems and speeches, always delivered with impeccable timing entirely from memory. He was a bridge and cribbage enthusiast and always enjoyed the opportunity to discuss politics or pick up a good book. A sports fan, he loved to watch sports, along with joining curling and bowling in his earlier years. Gerald travelled extensively with Marie in retirement throughout Europe and enjoyed cruising to the Caribbean and other destinations, taking one final cruise with his daughters Elizabeth and Anne Marie a few short years ago.

The family will receive friends at the Paul O'Connor Funeral Home, 1939 Lawrence Ave. E (between Warden and Pharmacy) between 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday November 1, 2022. A funeral mass will occur Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at 10:30 AM at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church, 1300 Leslie Street, Toronto, ON M3C 2K9. A committal service will occur Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at 12:30 PM at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, 8361 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill, ON L3T 2C7.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the North York General Hospital Foundation or a charity of your choice.

Memories may be shared at: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/en-ca/obituaries/scarborough-on/gerald-desjardins-10987048/add-memory