Gerrit De Leeuw, age 82, of Calgary, Alberta, died peacefully in Calgary on Sunday evening, January 13, 2019.
A celebration of Gerrit’s remarkable and fulfilled life will be held at the Crossroads Community Association Hall in Calgary, Alberta on Saturday, February 9, from 12 noon to 3 pm. (1803 14th Ave. N.E.).
Gerrit was born in the city of Arnhem, Holland in 1936. He grew up in his father’s footsteps, working in his butcher shop, learning his trade and other exceptional hands on skills that would become Gerrit’s trademark when he emigrated to Canada by plane in 1957. In Canada, he created a new life for himself, travelled and realized many of his dreams. He met and married his loving wife Elma and began a family.
Gerrit worked as a meat cutter for Safeway for many years before working for S.A.I.T. as a Meat Cutter Instructor, where he spent the last fifteen years of his career engaging and helping students in his chosen occupation. He was the ultimate hands on builder, self-taught in fine woodwork and other shop skills. He left a legacy of fine tables, shelves and other furniture, as well as a plethora of renovations for his, and others homes.
Gerrit spent much of his free time camping, travelling and exploring beautiful natural places with his wife and sons over the years. He occupied much of his retirement giving of himself freely. His service to others included helping neighbours and friends, delivering meals for the elderly, aiding them with taxes, and greeting travellers as a White Hat volunteer at the Calgary Airport. Everyone who knew Gerrit was familiar with his smile, enthusiasm and generous giving of his time and helping others in need.
Gerrit’s sense of humour endured right to the end. Two weeks before passing, his granddaughter said, “See you tomorrow.” His reply: “If you’re lucky!”
So many of us feel lucky today to have benefited from such a special man who helped us in so many ways.
Gerrit is survived by his loving wife, Elma Hendry De Leeuw of 58 years, his two sons; Gary and Bill, and his granddaughter Maria, whom he adored deeply and felt was a special gift in the latter part of his life. Gerrit is also survived by his sisters; Adrie and Nel in Holland, as well as many loving and caring nieces and nephews in Holland, Wales and the United States.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Gerrit De Leeuw January 13th 2019..
Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services
Death notice for the town of: Airdrie, Province: Alberta
I worked with Gerry at SAIT he was a wonderful man.
So sad to hear of his passing.
Colin Maxwell