Born in Selkirk, Manitoba on January 2, 1926, to Edward and Anna (Howell) Maloney, Gerald moved to British Columbia with his family in August 1940. The youngest of four children, Gerry—as he was called by those who knew him—possessed a quick dry wit that endlessly amused those around him. But his humor was paired with a serious side. He was supremely selfless and kindhearted. The greater part of his life was dedicated to caring for those in need. He was an extraordinarily generous man, always there to assist his family and friends. Gerry’s generosity didn’t end with family and friends. He took care of everyone he met who needed care and attention. He spent the bulk of his free time helping others, whether that entailed getting groceries or picking up medical prescriptions for people who didn’t have mobility. He was a strong and noble man, a person who behaved naturally in a way that many people aspire to be.
Anyone who got to know Gerry learned that he was talented; he could fix anything. He eschewed the modern throwaway society in favor of mending what was broken. Whether it was an ancient fridge that required repair, or overhauling his truck that had logged a whopping 350,000 kilometers, Gerry could take apart anything and put it back together again to make it work.
Gerry was predeceased by his parents, Anna and Edward Maloney of Vancouver, BC, his oldest brother Jack of Selkirk (sister-in-law Julie), brother Elmer of Vancouver, BC, and sister Marilyn (brother-in-law Jack) Peskett of Burnaby, BC.
With his passing, Gerry leaves to mourn his nieces Jackie Johnson (Neil Moser) of Prince George, BC, Darlene Maloney of Chicago, IL, and nephews Patrick (the late Diana) Maloney of Sarasota, FL, Jim (Jennifer) Peskett of Chilliwack, BC, Michael (Susan) Maloney of Selkirk, MB and Gordon (Bea) Peskett of Victoria, BC. Gerry is also survived by many great-nieces and nephews too numerous to mention.
Funeral Services will be held Saturday, January 19, 2019, at Ocean View Funeral Home, 4000 Imperial Street, Burnaby, BC, V5J 1A4, telephone (604) 435-6688. Viewing is at 10:00 a.m., with a graveside service at 11:00 a.m.
It is fitting that Gerry's middle name was Francis, because Francis was the patron saint of animals. Gerry loved animals. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the animal rescue organization Saints, 33860 Dlugosh Avenue, Mission, BC, V2V 6B2, [email protected].
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