À la mémoire de
Gytis Sernas
31 août 1929 –
2 juillet 2022
It is with profound sadness we announce the sudden passing of our beloved father, Gytis Martin Sernas. He was born on August 31, 1929 in Klaipėda, Lithuania, and passed away at his retirement home in Toronto on July 2, 2022 having reached almost 93 years of age.
He was the loving husband of the late Edith (2013) and cherished father to Asta (Victor), Vida (Alan) and Silvia (Alvin). He was the devoted and much loved Opa to his seven grandchildren – Daina, Vytas, Erika, Aleksa, Romas, Serena and Andrius. Gytis also leaves behind his brother Valentinas (Jone) as well as many nieces and nephews. He is also predeceased by his two sisters Aldona (Paulius) and Irena (Jim).
Gytis was a self-made man, having arrived alone in Canada from Germany in 1948 with nothing but a suitcase and a ton of ambition, confidence and drive. He attained both his Bachelor of Engineering (’54) and Master of Environmental Science (’64) at the University of Toronto. Gytis founded G.M. SERNAS and Associates in 1962 which at his retirement had grown to be one of the largest engineering firms in the GTA.
He wore his iron ring with pride and was well suited to his chosen profession. He was logical, detail-oriented and meticulous. These characteristics carried into his family life as well. He would plan family vacations to the last detail, which resulted in some wonderfully memorable trips. Throughout his life he enjoyed travelling the world with his wife Edith, nurturing his interest in history, geography, religion and various cultures. He enjoyed both downhill and cross-country skiing, sailing, camping and reading.
He was active in the Lithuanian community volunteering on the Lithuanian Lutheran Church council, Lithuanian scouts, Foundation of Lithuania Minor and others.
Upon retirement he built his dream home – Lake Sylvid, near Palgrave, Ontario. There he enjoyed the gardens, lake and nature trails. Lake Sylvid became our family’s gathering place for countless birthdays, Christmases, and other celebrations. After Edith’s passing he moved to Delmanor Prince Edward retirement home to be closer to his family.
Dad lived life to the fullest! Above all he loved his family and he cherished the time we spent together. We shall miss his bear hugs and kisses but are forever comforted by the love that we felt from him.
Saldžių sapnų tėvelį. Iki pasimatymo.
Friends may call at the Turner & Porter, Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor St. W., at Windermere, east of the Jane Subway, on Friday, July 8, 2022 from 6-8 p.m. Funeral Service will be held in the Chapel on Saturday, July 9, 2022 at 1 p.m. Interment St. John’s Lithuanian Cemetery.
Donations may be made to Romuva Inc.
Signer le livre d’or
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Gytis Sernas 31 août 1929
2 juillet 2022..
turner & porter funeral directors
Death notice for the town of: Toronto, Province: Ontario