Gerald Upward

Gerald Arthur Upward

Gerry has left us all too soon. We are heartbroken at his sudden passing on May 10, 2010.

He was predeceased by his mother Edna in 2006. He is lovingly remembered by Marti, his love in life and wife of 26 years; his children Darren (Julie), Mark, Lisa, Ande and Scott; his father Frank, brother Ed (Lorrie), mother-in-law Blanche Cool, sister-in-law Vicki Cowan, Patti (Derek) Anderson, brothers-in-law Amiel Cool, Shelly (Kim) Cool, Tim (Mary-Jo) Cool, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Gerry was born in Portage la Prairie, February 23, 1957. He grew up with a passion for music, family, tropical fish, playing and coaching sports, socializing and cars. He owned many vehicles in his life and could tell you off the top of his head the make, year and particulars of each vehicle he saw (Amazing!). Anyone who knew Gerry will remember his easygoing style and smile. He always had an encouraging word or some humor to impart. He had a quick wit and loved to rejoin anyone of the same mind. Gerry worked as a school janitor for a part time job through his school years. He attended Fort la Reine, Yellowquill and PCI. He graduated and went on to achieve his Business Administration Diploma from Red River College. This helped him establish his hobby business of Portage Pet Supply, which gave him many years of pleasure and many friends of a common interest. He became employed with the Provincial Department of Highways in 1980 and was there at the present time.

In the summer of 1980 he met his future wife, Marti, and they were soon inseparable. Marriage came in 1984. A life of family began together as they brought into the world their life work of five beautiful children, one daughter and four sons.

Gerry played many sports throughout his earlier years and his last "over 40" effort was Big Four Hockey, which gave him many happy memories. Baseball was also a big part of Gerry's early life and he was an excellent player and team member. He also coached ball and found this a very satisfying endeavor. A passion Gerry was finally able to recognize these past few years was that of finally owning a classic vehicle, a 1970 Chevy Impala. Gerry and Marti had many happy trips driving away and enjoying precious time together and seeing lots of beautiful sites and vehicles.

Gerry was intelligent, sensitive, compassionate and steadfast as husband, father, son, brother and friend. He fulfilled his purpose in life of giving his precious love to Marti and his family. He did this with consistency, perseverance and his strong belief that family is the most important thing you will ever have.

Gerry is now at peace, knowing his family love him deeply and miss him dearly. He is in our hearts forever.

Following his wishes, there was a private funeral led by Deacon Bill Parrack at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. In consistency with Gerry's goal to provide for his family, you may make a donation to the Upward Family Fund at the Portage Credit Union, 19 Royal Road N, Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 1T9.

"Become totally empty.

Let your heart be at peace.

Amidst the rush of worldly

Coming and goings,

Observe how endings

Become beginnings.

Things flourish, each by each,

Only to return to the Source ...

To what is and what is to be."

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel 857-4021 www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com