Gerald Heal
July 6, 1930 — November 12, 2015
Gerald Arthur Heal
Peacefully with family and friends by his side Gerald Heal passed away on Thursday November 12, 2015 at the Portage District General Hospital at the age of 85 years.
Gerald was born July 6, 1930 in Ryerson Saskatchewan. He was predeceased by his parents Harold and May; sister Phyllis ; brothers Bill and Jim; brothers-in-law Jack Stubbington and Victor Mikkonen; sister-in-law Esther and Betty Heal; and partner Margaret Spriggs. Gerald will be sadly missed by his sisters Winnie and Alice (Elmer); brothers Hugh(Pat), Cecil (Suschillier), Ron (Muriel), Stan (Maureen); sister-in-law Betty (Jim) Kyle, numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and lifelong friend Joan Baldwin.
Gerald was raised on the family farm and continued that tradition farming with his brother Hugh in the same area that he was raised. The brothers sold their farm in 1996 and he followed his heart to Portage la Prairie to join Margaret Spriggs. Many years were spent enjoying family get-togethers, time at the cabin located in the Waterhen area, and traveling in the motorhome. Gerald enjoyed spending time with family and friends, golfing, curling and having coffee. He believed in helping those that he could and made a difference in many lives.
A graveside service will take place on Friday, November 20, 2015 at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Columbarium at 11:00 am. Please gather at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel at 10:45 am to proceed to the cemetery. A sharing of memories will be held at McKenzie Portage Funeral home following, everyone is welcome to celebrate Gerald’s life.
A special thanks to Bev, Chelsea, Joan, and Betty for being there when a helping hand was needed the most. Also thanks to Dr. Dow and the nurses for the care and compassion shown to Gerald over the last several months.
As expressions of sympathy, if friends so wish, donations may be made in Gerald’s memory to Sunset Palliative Care Inc, Box 92, Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 3B2 or to a charity of your choice.
A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. 204-857-4021 www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com