We Remember

CONWAY, Gerald

August 17, 1941 — February 12, 2023

With broken hearts, we announce the passing of Gerald Hugh Conway on February 12, 2023, at the age of 81. Gerald was predeceased by his parents, Hugh and Violet; his brother Jim; and his wife of 52 years, Ellen (d. 2013). He is survived by his daughters Wendy Serko (Larry) and Shelley Yost (Warren); grandchildren Tasia & Landon Serko, and Scott & Chase Yost. He will also be dearly missed by his extended family and friends.

Gerald, also known as Ger or Gerry, was born on August 17, 1941, in Montreal, Québec. At four years old, he and his family moved to North Vancouver, BC. When he was 16, Ger left school and took a job as a porter on the “Glacier Queen” cruise ship, which sailed from Vancouver to Skagway, Alaska.

After his time on the ship, Ger met the love of his life, Ellen. They married in 1961, bought Ger’s family’s business and their first home in North Vancouver; and a few years later, they started a family. In 1969, they moved to Kelowna, BC with their daughters Wendy and Shelley. Gerry got a job with School District #23, where he worked for 32 years.

Ger enjoyed his career, but he LOVED being retired! He also loved the Okanagan sunshine, his RAV4, and Dairy Queen. He was always curious about things, and “I wonder” was a common way for him to start a conversation. He was a life-long learner and loved educating himself on new technology, magic tricks, astronomy, and history.

Over the years, Gerry was active in Judo, running, and various fitness classes, often being the only man in aerobics, which he said he didn’t mind one bit! Always ready to lend a helping hand, he regularly volunteered in the community, forming lasting friendships.

His greatest joy was his family. Ger and Ellen enjoyed camping and visiting with extended family. As he got older, his enthusiasm for travel continued, and he especially treasured his family trip to Cuba and the Maritimes. Perhaps most of all, Ger loved being a grandpa. He was his grandkids’ biggest fan! He was so proud to see them grow and mature, and he cherished every moment with them.

Ger was truly a lover of life. Described by many as a gentleman, he was kind-hearted and adored by all for his stories, sense of humour, and dedication to his family. He was an incredible role model for how people should treat one another. He had a smile for everyone he met and will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held on SATURDAY, APRIL 1, 2023, at 1:00 PM (PDT), at SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME (2020 Springfield Rd., Kelowna, BC) with a reception to follow. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream at the time of the service (see below), a recording will be made available to view shortly thereafter.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

LIVESTREAM:

Service
SATURDAY, APRIL 1, 2023, at 1:00 PM (PDT)

Location
SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME

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