O'CONNELL, Michael Gerard "Gerry"

April 11, 1931 – May 16, 2023

Peacefully on May 16, 2023 in Ottawa surrounded by his loving family, Gerry left this life to join his wife Shirley in heaven. Gerry's memory lives on through his beloved children Carolyn Roberts (Rick) and David O'Connell (Lisa), and his grandchildren Victoria, Matthew (Karina), Zachary and James. Gerry joins his parents, John and Catherine, his older brothers, Daniel and John, and many other relatives and friends in heaven. He will be dearly missed by his many other relatives and friends.

Gerry was raised in Madoc, Ontario where he has many fond memories of riding his bike and delivering papers. He later moved to Peterborough to work as a welder for the GE, where he met and fell in love with his lifelong sweetheart, Shirley. Gerry was respected for his work ethic and ingenuity, and adored for his lighthearted social nature - qualities that he instilled in his children and grandchildren. He was an active member of the union, and fighting for labour rights was the pride of his career. He was an example of unwavering faith, loyally attending weekly Mass and leaning on his faith to guide him through the trials life sent his way. Above all, Gerry was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and a pillar of strength for his family.

For all who had the privilege of meeting Gerry, it was impossible not to love him. He will be remembered as a gentle soul who never took life too seriously, and enjoyed good conversation with everyone he met. He loved revisiting cherished memories with Shirley, reminiscing about his work at GE, and sharing the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. Although Gerry will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort knowing he is dancing again with Shirley, the love of his life.

A commemoration of Gerry's life will be held at DUFFUS FUNERAL HOME, 431 George Street South with visitation from 12 noon to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 23, 2023. Funeral Mass will be held at the CATHEDRAL OF ST. PETER-IN-CHAINS on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. Interment at Highland Park Cemetery. Reception to follow in the Duffus Reception Centre.

In memory of Gerry and in lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Alzheimer Society would be appreciated by the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.duffusfuneralhome.com