On September 7, 2022, Gerald Albert Henderson passed away peacefully at his home in Mississauga with his adoring wife Wanda of 52 years by his side. Born 1931 in Barrie, Ontario predeceased by his sister Evelyn, first wife Helen, and left behind a precious host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Gerry graduated from UofT in 1953 with a BPHE but rather than teaching, he went into business and joined Sun Oil Company Limited in 1954, which later became Suncor. He spent 32 years with Suncor but felt fortunate to take an early retirement at age 55 and began a rewarding life of travel and enjoyment with Wanda.
When Gerry retired in 1986, he and Wanda took a two-month trip to India and Southeast Asia. This whetted an appetite for travel and led to planning a two-month tour of Africa to take place two years later.
Throughout his life, his never-ending love was Muskoka. He spent 90 years on the same property through three generations of cottages located in Sunnicove Bay. From April to November, this was his and Wanda’s life. Gerry’s key hobby was golf of which 19 years was spent on the links at Port Carling Golf & Country Club. He also enjoyed the camaraderie experienced at both Weston in Toronto & Worthington Golf & Country Club in Bonita Springs, Florida.
Quite often struggling with a love-hate relationship in his favorite sport, Gerry finally managed two holes-in-one within a short period while in his 80’s at PCGCC. While golf dominated summer, skiing was his winter hobby. Each winter dominated by ski trips to Europe, the US West, and Ellicottville followed by breaks typically enjoyed throughout the Caribbean.
In 1995, he and Wanda purchased a residence in Bonita Springs Florida at Worthington Golf & Country Club. Though this move was great for golf, it ended the winter skiing but did not inhibit travel. To avoid the busy winter traffic season in February / March, he and Wanda evolved their travel to mainly cruising and spending up to two months each winter traveling this wonderful world and learning its wide range of beauty and cultures.
Those who had a chance to witness and share his phenomenal and infectious personality will fondly remember Gerry’s life. Never seeking the spotlight, Gerry was one to assist multiple charities, institutions, and was devoted to his community. A selfless individual, he sought to make a difference in this world where he could. Often taking a personal interest in supporting individuals in need whether that be through his kind words or honest critical thoughts.
Gerry was a unique soul, a gourmand, and held a passion for seeking out great wine vintages. There was always room for a “Gerry Portion” when enjoying good food and even better when shared with close friends and family.
A close friend once shared:
“You have millions of memories. String them together and make a necklace. When ever you need, take the necklace and run your fingers over the memories, and you will have peace.”
Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life is to be held at a future date. Wanda and family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff of the Credit Valley Hospital Cancer Centre for their compassionate care over the past year. Specifically, our family wishes to thank Dr. Manji and her team as well as Dr. Michael Chambers for their unparalleled and devoted care.
Should you desire, please make a contribution to the Trillium Health Partners – Hospital Foundation using the following link https://secure.trilliumgiving.ca