Obituary of GERRY (SLAWKO) GAJDA

GERRY (SLAWKO) GAJDA

Winnipeg, Manitoba 
October 5, 1948 – March 8, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of our beloved husband, papa, uncle, and friend on Friday March 8, 2024, at the age of 75 years. Gerry was predeceased by his parents Harry and Katarzina (Nee: Holowaty), his loving wife, Betty James (2014) and his brother Edward Gajda (2020). After a two-year battle with lung cancer, Gerry leaves behind his children Kimberley and Kevin Corneillie, grand-daughter McKenna Perkins, his nephews Jeremy (Lenore) and James (Kari), sister-in-law, Judy and many loving friends. 

Gerry came over from the Ukraine with his family when he was approximately two years old. They settled in Winnipeg and made a life for themselves in Transcona. As a young child, he and his family would spend many weekends at his uncle’s farm working and playing pranks. This is one of his fondest memories as he loved the outdoors. Gerry was dedicated to his family and friends offering support and help whenever he could.  He could often be found cutting grass for others, assisting with home repairs, or simply bringing coffee to a friend. He enjoyed fishing and camping with his brother and nephews, attending every dance recital and horse-riding lesson for his grand-daughter, cooking crepes for his family and playing Kinsmen Bingo Saturday nights. He and his wife, Betty, enjoyed Sunday drives and weekly breakfasts with the CNR retirees catching up on all the gossip. Later, he would enjoy weekly suppers with the senior boy's club of the neighborhood. 

Gerry was a humble man who constantly offered to help friends, family and neighbors, often putting their needs ahead of his own. His heart and giving nature are true testament of his worth. Ernie Banks once stated, "The measure of a man is in the lives he's touched,” and papa, you touched many lives and made a difference to each. You will be lovingly remembered and, in your words, “Love you to pieces – meeces.” 

The family would like to thank Dr. Denis Caners, CancerCare, and the Riverview Health Centre - palliative care team, for their support and dedication to papa’s care during this difficult time. 

According to Gerry’s wishes a service will be held on Thursday, March 14 at 1:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1800 Day Street, Winnipeg, MB.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to CancerCare or the Winnipeg Humane Society.