GERALD PATRICK JOHN PORTEOUS

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GERALD PATRICK JOHN PORTEOUS An era ended with the passing of Gerry Porteous on August 26, 2003 at the age of 92. Left to cherish his memory is his daughter Carolyn (Gerry) sons, Ryan (Irene) and Ken (Roberta) nine grandchildren, Susan, Leanne, Todd (Bev), Penny (Ricky), Louise (Steve), Karen (Jim), Michelle (Aras), Lindsay and Michael; eight great-grandchildren, Jenna, Colin, Michelle, Leah, Kaitlyn, Courtney, Riley and Taya and sisters, Fran (Jack) and Aleta. Gerry was predeceased by his loving wife Eileen Mary (nee Shakespeare). They were married for an amazing 66 years! He also was predeceased by his parents, Charles John and Virginia Mary (nee McMillan) Porteous and his four brothers, Mel, Don, Louis and James and two sisters, Edna and Corinne. Gerry was born on June 17, 1911 in St. James, MB, where he lived all of his life. He spent his learning years with his Granny Mac (Virginie McMillan (nee Bruce)). He moved in with her at the age of nine to assist her with the farm. She had a significant influence on Gerry and referred to him as "her man of the house." He worked for Powell Equipment until his retirement in 1973. Gerry was a terrific carpenter and ably assisted in the construction of Carolyn and Gerrys cottage at Grand Beach in 1978. A year later he crossed the lake to lead the building of Ken and Robertas cottage at Sandy Hook. Gerry had a passion for the game of golf that lasted eight decades. It began when he started caddying at the Deer Lodge course and a short time later he constructed his own three-hole golf course in the Sturgeon Creek area. It continued with his work as a caddie at St. Charles, play at Royaumont (Glendale) and Polo Park, membership for many years at Assiniboine and spectator at major tournaments held in Winnipeg. He played his last game with his granddaughter Lindsay at St. Charles last fall. Gerry was a character and loved nothing better than an old fashioned house party with friends and relatives. This always afforded him the opportunity to pull out his mouth organs, play some tunes and follow-up with a jig or two. He also enjoyed laying down a bet or two on the ponies with his dad and brothers, throwing shoes with friends or playing bridge with Eileen. Gerry was honest, loving, loyal, responsible, humble, understanding, compassionate, gracious, forgiving and had a wonderful sense of humour. These traits he helped to instil in his children and grandchildren. Is there any finer measurement of a mans life on earth? The family would like to thank Case Coordinator Katherine Cameron and everyone from Home Care that helped us to fulfil Dads wishes to pass at home. They are Chris C., Kris S., Mark, Rebecca, Trinda Lee, Salam, and Wendy. Their compassion and care for our father was deeply felt and sincerely appreciated. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation towards Breast Cancer Research, Room 1160, 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9. Memorial service will be held on Tuesday, September 2 at 12:30 p.m. at the Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave. Irish Blessing May the road - rise to meet you, May the wind - be always at your back, May the sun - shine warm upon your face, The rains fall - soft upon your fields and Until we meet again - May God hold you - In the palm of His hand. Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CEMETERY AND CREMATORIUM 885-9715

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 30, 2003