We Remember
GARTNER, Gerald Michael (Gerry)
October 5, 1944 — February 14, 2022
Gerry passed away peacefully in the Kelowna General Hospital in the early morning hours of February 14, 2022, at the age of 77.
Gerry coped with the effects of Parkinson’s disease for many years, but despite his affliction, he could always be counted on to deliver that big smile and extend his hospitality and enthusiasm in his own unique way. He had a zest for life and was devoted to his loving wife Penny, their children, and grandchildren.
Many who knew Gerry will remember him in one of his various roles during his very successful and distinguished career with RBC spanning 37 years. Gerry enjoyed executive postings in Vancouver, London, England, and Toronto, where he inspired many others to succeed through his mentoring, guidance, encouragement, and caring. Gerry truly loved to see others succeed.
Gerry was predeceased by his father and mother, Joseph and Amelia Gartner; his brother Harold Gartner; sister Sandra Chomicki; and niece Alexis Chomicki. Gerry leaves behind his loving wife of 54 years, Margo Penelope (Penny) Gartner; his sons Darren (Erin) and Colin (Anastasia); and grandchildren Brianne, Connor, Ethan, Owen, Liev, Zachary, and Sophie.
Penny Gartner and her family would like to advise a Funeral Mass in Gerry’s honor will be held at the Immaculate Conception Church, 839 Sutherland Avenue, Kelowna, BC, at 11:30 am on Saturday, May 14, 2022. If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by live stream (https://youtu.be/X_3jj-SHf0w). The funeral will be followed by a luncheon in the church hall, where all are invited to share their memories and celebrate Gerry’s life.
In lieu of flowers, you may consider a donation to Parkinson’s Canada, www.parkinson.ca.
Take flight our brother
On the wings of doves may your soul journey to peace
Find those welcoming arms
And take your place in the room arranged for you
Our love for you will never fade
May perpetual light shine upon you…
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Service
Saturday, May 14, 2022, at 11:30 am
Location
Immaculate Conception Church
Share with Others:
Parkinson's Canada Link: www.parkinson.ca
Service Information
Service Details
The service for GARTNER, Gerald Michael (Gerry) is scheduled for Saturday, May 14, 2022, at 11:30 am. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.
Address & Contact for Service Location:
Immaculate Conception Church
839 Sutherland Avenue, Kelowna, BC
Phone:
Special Requests:
None.
Funeral Pointers:
Condolences
I was one of the lucky people to work with Gerry and prosper from his mentorship.
Gerry and Penny became friends and often neighbours over the years. His smile and zest for life were contagious. Jacquie and I know he will be missed by all
Penny, Darren and Colin, you have our heartfelt condolences
Bruce and Jacquie
I feel fortunate to have gotten to know Gerry, he always had a welcoming smile & greeting. He was generous with knowledge & ideas….he will be missed.
My sincere condolences to his family & all that knew him……Sincerely Bonnie Robertson ⚘
Penny and Family our deepest condolences. So long to a great friend who provided many lasting memories. Love Ann and Norm
My deepest condolences to all of Gerry’s loving family. It was a privilege and an honor to get to know Gerry, and spend precious time with him. I am so grateful. Thank you and many Blessings. xoxo Maria
Penny and family. We are so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. We and your family go back a long ways . We cherish the good times. Gerry and Gene worked together at RBC on three separate occasions and those were wonderful experiences. We will miss his positive attitude towards life and friendly smile.
Linda and Gene Schuster
Penny, I’m so sorry for your loss. Gerry would always light up a room with his big smile and kind words. He will be greatly missed.
Our deepest condolences to Penny and all the Gartner family. We always remember visiting the wine home during our camping holidays and visits to Kelowna. May Gerry Rest In Peace. Bill and Frieda Rogers
My condolences to the Gartner family. I got to know Gerry quite well working with him in Toronto. A great leader, a great banker and a great person! Gerry, Rest In Peace!
Penny and Family,
It is incredibly sad news to hear that Gerry has passed away. Our hearts go out to you Penny, and also to Darren, Colin and their families at this difficult time. Career paths took us in different directions and we have not been in contact for a long time, but that said, our social and camping holiday adventures in the early years of our banking careers were filled with fun and good times together with our young families. Memories of those times have often brought thoughts of the Gartners. May God’s love and peace surround you all.
Gerry was one of the first people I met back in November 1973 when my wife Ruth and I started our new life in Canada. I reported to 8th Avenue and Centre Street Branch of RBC ready to start my new career. Gerry was so good to me and while the focus was on getting me through the training program, he spent time making suggestions on how to make life during the winter months a lot more bearable as well as providing sound advice on life in Canada and what to expect. He was a truly nice guy and when I reflect back on my life in Canada I consider him to be one of the real influencers. My thoughts are with you.
My sincere condolences to Penny and all the Gartner family. From another retired RBC member .
Our heart felt condolences to Penny, Darren, Colin and family. We, of course, only knew Gerry after his retirement and so didn’t get to interact with him professionally, but we did certainly experience his big smile and warm welcome as we moved into the cul-de-sac. This was so special to us. Penny if you need anything we are right next door for you.
The Penner family
My condolences Penny. I met Gerry at Hillhurst branch, the summer of 1970. I was a summer student and Gerry invested his valuable time in me, teaching me banking but more importantly showing me how to create relationships with customers and staff. His enthusiasim for RBC rubbed off on me that summer and ultimately 18 months later I started my 35 year RBC career. I did thank Gerry each time we encountered each other over the years, for the inital encouragement and the result being a career I loved. I know I am not unique in how Gerry treated people he encountered. Gerry was a major influencer in my life and for that I could not be more thankful. God Bless you and your family!