December 5, 2020
1947-2021 ~ After a four-year battle with cancer, Jerry died on December 5th 2020 surrounded by his family, at home in Campbell River. He leaves behind his wife, Andrea, his sons Mark (Alana), Matt (Angie) and Jamie, and his three grandchildren, Madison, Nicole and Liam. Also mourning his loss are his sister Ina (Jill) and his brother-in-law Mel (Jennifer).
Jerry was born in Holland and his family came to Ontario in his youth. After high school, Jerry worked to put himself through university to become a teacher. He started his teaching career in Ontario before moving to BC to teach in many northern communities including Kitimat, Cassiar, Dease Lake and Fort Nelson.
It was in Dease Lake where Jerry first became a principal of schools and met the love of his life, Andrea. After being in Fort Nelson for a couple of years a dear friend of Jerry's, Garry Roth, inspired him to pursue his education further to become a Superintendent of Schools.
Jerry continued his career as a principal, moving for a short time to Alberta and then back to BC. He obtained his Master of Education in 1988 and became Superintendent of Schools/Secretary Treasurer in Burns Lake. He finished his career as Superintendent of Schools in Bella Coola, retiring in 2007.
Jerry had a gift and love for coaching and during his career in Bassano, Burns Lake and Bella Coola he spent many hours coaching basketball and soccer.
Jerry and Andrea retired to Kaleden, BC where he was able to pursue some of his passions of golf and exploring the outdoors. However with their preference for a year-round climate and to be closer to their grandchildren, they moved to Campbell River in 2009.
Jerry and Andrea loved the outdoors which included many dog walks with Oliver in the Beaver Lodge Lands and travelling to Maui in the winter. Jerry also had an interest in photography and a love of cooking.
Throughout his retirement Jerry's love for golf continued in Campbell River, where he became involved with and served as the President of Storey Creek Golf Club for 9 years. He loved that he could contribute and make a difference to the course where he enjoyed so many countless hours playing a game with "the guys".
Jerry's biggest passion came though when he had a chance to coach soccer once again, coaching his grandchildren, which led to him becoming involved with the local CRYSA, developing many friendships and relationships over the years.
He was so passionate about spending time with his soccer family, namely Joe, Jordie and all the kids and their parents, coaching, teaching and learning. This was something that had a special place in his heart that he so greatly cherished.
We were so blessed to have this vibrant man in our lives. He encouraged all to always put their best foot forward in life and to try, and though he would never tell you, he was always there to pick up the pieces if needed. He managed to do one of the rare things in life we all strive to do, he walked his talk. His family were the love of his life. He was taken much too soon.
The family would like to thank everyone for their support and kind words over the last few months. A special thank you and appreciation to Dr. Prinsloo for his guidance and caring for Jerry through his journey, to all the kind nurses in the CR Cancer Clinic, as well as the tireless efforts and compassionate care provided by home support and home care nurses through palliative care.
Due to Covid there will be no service at this time. If you would like to make a donation in Jerry's honour, please consider the Canadian Red Cross or Canadian Cancer Society.