Gerald Milton Hofstetter

Passed away peacefully at Cambridge, Ontario on Wednesday October 22, 2014 in his 93rd year. Predeceased by his beloved wife Helen (2002). Loving father of John (Maria), Susan Pautler (Chuck), Libby Noonan (and the late Bill) and Mary. Dearly loved grandfather of Lori, Amanda, Andrew, Marsha, John, Michael, James, Robin and Jessie. Great-grandfather to Ethan, Liam, Theodore, Elliot, Devon, Vivian, Lola, Jade and Cullen. Survived by sisters Helen and Joy and brother Clair. Predeceased by brother Ray. Gerald was born in Baden, Ontario and raised on a farm at Riverbank near Waterloo-Wellington Airport. In 1950, Gerald and his loving wife Helen moved to ThistleBlend Farm located on Fountain Street, Cambridge. Together they raised a family, were active members of the local farm and Zion United Church community and built a successful dairy-beef farm operation. Gerald will be remembered for his strong work ethic, commitment to farming, stewardship for the land and knowledge of pioneer history. Gerald was an endless source of stories, memories and advice which he shared freely with anyone he met. The family wishes to thank the caregivers at Cambridge Country Manor and Golden Years Retirement Home, Cambridge for their care and kindness during the latter years of his life. The family will receive friends at the Barthel Funeral Home, 566 Queenston Road, Cambridge, Ontario N3H 3J8 (519)-653-3251 on Thursday October 30, 2014 from 2-4 pm & 7-9 pm and Friday October 31, 2014 from 2-4 pm. A Funeral Service will be held at Trillium United Church, 450 King Street East, Cambridge N3H 3M9 on Saturday November 1, 2014 at 11 am. Interment to follow at Zion United Cemetery, Cambridge. As expressions of sympathy, donations to The Lung Association, Alzheimer Society, Heart and Stroke Foundation or Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.