Jaroslav Gogela

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jaroslav (Jerry) Gogela on October 17, 2015 at Brummitt-Feasby ALS Hospice. He is predeceased by parents Emilie and Jaroslav Gogela and sister Blanka. He will be remembered lovingly by his wife Mischa his son Martin (Carrie) and daughter Kelly. He will be greatly missed by his sisters Milena and Marketa and brother Jindřich of the Czech Republic. He leaves to mourn his Canadian in-laws: Honza (Eva) Slaviček, Jan (Lucy) and Julie (Ian) Kozachuk of Winnipeg; and Liba Mahdal, David (Gemma) and Mark (Sherri-Lynn) of Calgary.

Jaroslav, affectionately known as Jerry, was born in the town of Slušovice in the Zlín region of the Czech Republic. In 1968 he left his home and family to immigrate to Canada settling in Manitoba. His sheet metal working and mechanics training garnered him a position with Motor Coach Industries. In 1970 he met his soulmate Misha and they married on November 14 of the same year. In 1971 he began his position of tool and dye maker at Bristol Aerospace where he was a dedicated and celebrated employee until his retirement in 2014. A dedicated family man he worked hard to ensure his family was never without. He was an avid tennis player that loved the game. He was a strong supporter and prominent member of the Czech community in Winnipeg.

The family would like to express their gratitude and appreciation of the staff at Brummitt-Feasby ALS Hospice and Victoria General Hospital for the ongoing compassionate care they provided. A memorial service will be held 2:00 pm Tuesday, October 27 at the Canadian Czechslovak Benevolent Association at 154 McKenzie Street in Winnipeg. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the ALS Society of Manitoba, 2A – 1717 Dublin Avenue, Winnipeg MB R3H 0H2 or [email protected].