Gerard William Kennedy

After a courageous battle with cancer, it is with deep sorrow and sadness that we announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend Gerard William Kennedy on Sunday, March 19, 2023, at the Bethesda Regional Health Centre in Steinbach, Manitoba.

Gerard was predeceased by his parents; Frank and Florence, one brother; Francis "Frank" and sister-in-law; Anne.

Gerard will be lovingly remembered by his wife; Mary, daughters; Amanda (Robert), Shayla, grandchildren; Jordan, Taliyah, Zachary, Xavier, Quintin, sisters; Marie (Steve) Holloway, Patsy Critch, Elizabeth (George) Sweeney, Marguerite (Eric) Rose, brothers; Steve (Yvonne), Terry (Cathy), sisters-in-law; Glenys Kennedy, Cathy Searle, and Jacqueline (Joe) Jamieson. As well as numerous extended family and friends.

Gerard was born the second youngest of eight children to Florence and Francis Kennedy, and was raised in Harbour Grace, NL. He joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1977 at the age of 17 and served for 30 years, at which time he retired as a Warrant Officer with the PPCLI. During his time in the military, he served with the 2nd Battalion PPCLI and several Reserve units travelling across Canada and Europe.

He met his wife in 1977, while they were both posted in Winnipeg, MB, and later married in 1982. Gerard was blessed to have two beautiful daughters, of whom were his pride and joy; he enjoyed spending much of his free time with them. Despite the sacrifices he made while spending a great deal of time away from his family to serve his country, Gerard worked hard to make sure they were well taken care of and felt loved every day. He was also blessed with five wonderful grandchildren, through whom he lived vicariously, teaching them about history, playing cars or dolls and, of course, teaching them to cheer for the Toronto Maple Leafs. They brought him a tremendous amount of joy and happiness. 

Gerard, everyone you left in this world is saddened that you are gone, but we take comfort knowing you are at peace and no longer in pain. 

The family sends a special thank you to the doctors, nurses, and health care aides at the Bethesda Regional Health Centre for their care, compassion and support during his brief stay before passing with his beloved family at his side. 

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at Crossings Funeral Care (12E-40 North Gate Drive) in Steinbach, MB. 

The recorded livestream service can be viewed here.