On January 25th Gerhard Otto Kuter, 88, passed away quietly at home of heart failure, in the care of his beloved son Ian, cherished granddaughter Lily and dearest Erin.
Beloved husband of 57 years of the late Ingrid Kuter (nee Bordasch), the light of his life. He was the second of four children born in Berlin, Germany of the late Dr. Berhard Otto Kuter and the late Margarita Kuter (nee Gerhman).
Gerhard “Benito” is lovingly remembered and dearly missed by brother Hans Werner and his family. He is predeceased by sister Ingaborg Helga and brother Karl Heinz, whose respective families dearly miss him and cherish fond memories along with extended family.
Following the hardship and devastation of WW II Berlin, Gerhard forfeited his studies for employment. In 1951 he emigrated to Toronto Canada to secure a more lucrative future. He was successful in a number of apprenticeships and received certifications in Precision Mechanics and Watchmaking, building working models for an inventor. He excelled in the HVAC field working as a Union Technician for three different companies prior to retiring at 65 years of age. Gerhard was a Freemason and proud of his affiliation with one of the oldest charitable organizations worldwide.
Early on Lake Ontario beckoned and Gerhard purchased Solaris, his sailboat from 1957-60 and became a Senior Member of the Alexandra Yacht Club (AYC). Ingrid, his first (and only) mate joined him shortly thereafter (married 1960), followed by their pride and joy, Ian (born 1966) and together they embraced the cruising life on Solaris II. Twelve years ago, Lily came into Opa and Oma’s lives and hearts. Both Opa and Oma treasured their time with her, especially at AYC, leaving a legacy of memories for Ian, Lily and Erin.
Over the years, with integrity and an abiding sense of duty and responsibility, Gerhard served on the AYC Board of Directors as Dock Master, Yard Master and Treasurer. He was particularly proud of his tenure and reputation as the Treasurer with the “iron-fisted hold on funds “. His stewardship ensured the future financial security of the club.
Gerhard enjoyed 60 + years of active Senior Membership at AYC with Ingrid by his side. Achieving Lifetime Membership status, the couple were steadfastly dedicated to AYC earning the respect of fellow members and other boaters, who unofficially viewed them as “patriarch” and “matriarch” of AYC – truly.
Gerhard is dearly missed by his AYC family and many friends both near and far, who take comfort in knowing that he is reunited with Ingrid. Of note are friends in Barbados, where he and Ingrid vacationed for 20 years and many close family friends, you know who you are.
A pragmatic, self-made family man, Gerhard led a rich, full life – always learning and quick to share his knowledge. He is fondly remembered for having the exact tool and insight to solve any boating problem! Rest assured Gerhard we will toast to your life and memory.
Visiting will be held at the Kane-Jerrett North York Funeral Home, 6191 Yonge St. (South of Steeles Ave.) on Thursday from 1:00 pm until time of the funeral service which will be held in the chapel at 2:00 o'clock. Cremation to follow. If desired, in memoriam donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
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