Gerald Edward Blackburn
April 18, 1928 –August 23, 2023
Our family is deeply saddened by the passing of Gerry, with family by his side, at his home in Creemore on August 23, 2023.
Son of Hazel Flack and George K. Blackburn. Predeceased by his loving wife, Doreen (2005), Gerry is survived by his devoted son, Bill, and daughter, Lynne (Hans), two cherished granddaughters, Sarah (Kris) and Sydney (Kris) and dear friend, Joan Morby.
Gerry was born in Nottawasaga Township outside Creemore, attending Creemore Continuation School. He worked for the Toronto Dominion Bank for some years as a young man, worked at IRC (Electronics Component Manufacturer) in West Hill and returned to Creemore in 1956 with his wife and young family, opening an Appliance & TV store. A career change took Gerry to Noble Insurance where he spent the rest of his working days until retirement. Gerry was an active contributing member of his community- attending St. Johns United Church, Creemore Councillor and Reeve, Fire Department Volunteer, School Board Trustee, Nottawasaga Antique Car Club member, Mason for 73 years and Creemore Union Cemetery Board Member. And Gerry was Treasurer for years of every organization he ever belonged to! Gerry and Doreen travelled many times to Florida as well as B.C. His later years were spent with Joan – travelling, camping, and showing his Delco Light plant at many Steam Shows.
Dad was the BEST Dad and Grandpa, a great guy, always interested in meeting people and learning something new. Computer systems for Nobles, innovative mechanical things for the house & yard and adding to his Delco light plant. Gerry was a historian, often answering inquiries from community members about Creemore. He loved Creemore, learning much about it over the years. At age 90, Gerry wrote a book about his life and was pleased to share copies with many people. Thank you to the Creemore Echo for supporting him in this endeavour. Being housebound during the Pandemic, he managed to reach out to many friends near and far via phone to stay in touch.
A service of remembrance will be held at Fawcett Funeral Home – Creemore Chapel at 11 a.m. on Saturday September 9, 2023, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Hospice Georgian Triangle or charity of your choice with thanks. Friends may visit Gerry’s online Book of Memories at www.fawcettfuneralhomes.com