Obituary for William Gerald Chant
CHANT, William Gerald: October 29, 1931 to May 2, 2020
Passed in peace at the FJ Davey Home on May 2nd in his 89th year with his loving wife Mary by his side. A devoted loving husband and life-partner of Mary for more than 60 years. Beloved and cherished father of Ruth (Raul Diaz) and Sheilagh Fillion (Jay).
Gerald was born in Hyde, Cheshire England to his late parents Horace William and May Chant (nee Markland). He is predeceased by his sisters Audrey Blud (late Nicholas), and Ruth and his brother Peter (Alicia). Fondly remembered by his nephews and nieces and their extended families, Nicholas Blud (Josie), Paul Blud (Lisa), Linda Chant and Becky Aubrey (Mark). Lovingly remembered by his Irish family, his brother-in-law Philip Smyth (late Cora), sister-in-law Patricia Smyth and his nieces Lorna, Corinna and Lisa.
Gerald joined the merchant navy in England and travelled the world as a young man. In the early 1950’s, he travelled to Canada, landing in Sault Ste. Marie. Within a few years, he left the Sault briefly only to return with his mother, sisters and brother. In August 1961, he married his wife Mary, and together they settled in their new home on Kitchener Road where they lovingly raised their two daughters.
Gerald spent 35 years employed as an Electrician at Algoma Steel but after work hours, he enjoyed playing soccer in the Sault Soccer League, bowling at Northcrest Lanes where he played on Ernie’s TV and Radio team, and he could always be coaxed to join his friends for a night of cards. Many wonderful memories were made with his young family on holidays, including the epic one month car journey across the US, a road trip to Cape Breton, many trips to Ireland and the journey to England to visit his birthplace with his wife and daughters. In his later years, he enjoyed numerous trips to Sault Michigan with his son-in-law Jay to play Blackjack. Many laughs and good times were shared on these outings. Gerald is remembered fondly by great friends and neighbours on Kitchener Road and vicinity, as well as the broader community.
In his final years, Alzheimer’s and dementia slowly began to change Gerald’s daily life. In September 2016, he moved into the FJ Davey Home where he received wonderful care by the exceptional teams of NPs, RPNs, PSWs, Aides, Activity Coordinators, and Kitchen staff on Driftwood 1st Floor. The family is so appreciative for the loving care and compassion provided to Gerald every day, but particularly in his final days.
Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life and Prayer Service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions to the FJ Davey Home Foundation or Alzheimer’s Society would be greatly appreciated by the family.
Passed in peace at the FJ Davey Home on May 2nd in his 89th year with his loving wife Mary by his side. A devoted loving husband and life-partner of Mary for more than 60 years. Beloved and cherished father of Ruth (Raul Diaz) and Sheilagh Fillion (Jay).
Gerald was born in Hyde, Cheshire England to his late parents Horace William and May Chant (nee Markland). He is predeceased by his sisters Audrey Blud (late Nicholas), and Ruth and his brother Peter (Alicia). Fondly remembered by his nephews and nieces and their extended families, Nicholas Blud (Josie), Paul Blud (Lisa), Linda Chant and Becky Aubrey (Mark). Lovingly remembered by his Irish family, his brother-in-law Philip Smyth (late Cora), sister-in-law Patricia Smyth and his nieces Lorna, Corinna and Lisa.
Gerald joined the merchant navy in England and travelled the world as a young man. In the early 1950’s, he travelled to Canada, landing in Sault Ste. Marie. Within a few years, he left the Sault briefly only to return with his mother, sisters and brother. In August 1961, he married his wife Mary, and together they settled in their new home on Kitchener Road where they lovingly raised their two daughters.
Gerald spent 35 years employed as an Electrician at Algoma Steel but after work hours, he enjoyed playing soccer in the Sault Soccer League, bowling at Northcrest Lanes where he played on Ernie’s TV and Radio team, and he could always be coaxed to join his friends for a night of cards. Many wonderful memories were made with his young family on holidays, including the epic one month car journey across the US, a road trip to Cape Breton, many trips to Ireland and the journey to England to visit his birthplace with his wife and daughters. In his later years, he enjoyed numerous trips to Sault Michigan with his son-in-law Jay to play Blackjack. Many laughs and good times were shared on these outings. Gerald is remembered fondly by great friends and neighbours on Kitchener Road and vicinity, as well as the broader community.
In his final years, Alzheimer’s and dementia slowly began to change Gerald’s daily life. In September 2016, he moved into the FJ Davey Home where he received wonderful care by the exceptional teams of NPs, RPNs, PSWs, Aides, Activity Coordinators, and Kitchen staff on Driftwood 1st Floor. The family is so appreciative for the loving care and compassion provided to Gerald every day, but particularly in his final days.
Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life and Prayer Service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions to the FJ Davey Home Foundation or Alzheimer’s Society would be greatly appreciated by the family.