Gerald William Walchuk

About Gerry (Obituary)

As Gerry would say, he was born at an early age to William and Ethel Walchuk in Winnipeg, Manitoba. He is survived by his wife, Pat, two brothers Grant (Heather) and Gary Walchuk, and one nephew, Kristopher Walchuk, as well as Pat’s extended family.

Gerry grew up on the rough streets of Winnipeg’s North End, and when he was 11 his father died, leaving him “the head of the family.” After his years at Sisler High School he worked in Eaton’s Mail Order and later at Canadian Tire, where he was the top tire salesman.

Gerry met Pat at Trinity Baptist Church when he renewed his relationship with Jesus in 1983. As the sound technician he first saw her when she was doing music ministry. He was immediately smitten, but it took Pat a couple of years and a gentle push from the congregational matchmaker to discover that there was, “…more to Canadian Tire than tires.” They were married in 1987.

Three years later, knowing Gerry was called into ministry, Gerry and Pat moved to Vancouver so Gerry could study theology at Carey Theological Seminary and Regent College, where he obtained a Diploma of Christian Studies and an MDiv. His formal ministry was rich and varied, beginning with a four-year internship at First Baptist Church, Vancouver. He then moved on to be an Associate Chaplain at YVR airport, Chaplain at Beulah Gardens Seniors Residence (now known as Hopehill), and Interim Minister at First Baptist Church, Chilliwack. Even after his health began to fail he continued to minister to all kinds of people in coffee shops, leading Pat to name him “the Apostle to Starbucks”. He had the gift of relating to people of every age, stage,and class with warmth and compassion.

When Gerry and Pat were well into middle age, Gerry had another case of

love at first sight when he met a tiny baby named Maria and decided that day to bring her home with him. Pat took a little more convincing, wondering if they had enough energy to raise a child. Maria was placed in their home at the age of two and became a much-loved part of the family.

Gerry’s warmth and compassion will be greatly missed. A Memorial Service for him will be held at 2 pm on Sunday, Feb. 25 in the auditorium of Shannon Oaks Seniors’ Community, 2526 Waverley Ave., Vancouver. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to First Baptist Church and the Kidney Foundation.

The family sincerely thanks you for sharing their sadness and loss. Your thoughtfulness is appreciated and will always be remembered.

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Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hamiltonharronfunerals.com for the Leung family.