May 11, 1955 – October 10, 2026
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of John Richard Gerryts on October 10, 2026, at the age of 71.
John was born on May 11, 1955, at Sarnia General Hospital to John and Joanne Gerryts.
John was the beloved husband of Evelyn (Van Geeman) Gerryts, with whom he shared 45 years of marriage.
John was a proud father to his two sons, Scott (Kristin Van Wely) and Ian (Tracy Huizinga).
His greatest pride and joy were his six grandchildren: Andrew, Ryan, and Lucy, children of Scott and Kristin, and Hailey, Tegan, and Cody, children of Ian and Tracy.
Nothing brought John greater happiness than his grandchildren. Whether at the arena or the baseball diamond, he loved being there to watch them play and cheer them on. He was their biggest fan and never missed an opportunity to talk about them or share their successes with others. His grandchildren were the true joy of his life, and he was immensely proud of each of them.
John was a hardworking man who dedicated 37 years of his career to Fonthill Lumber before finishing his working years at Turkstra Lumber.
Outside of work, John had two particular passions: his dog and his car. He especially loved his Mustang and was often seen out and about, causing a little disturbance behind the wheel. His love of cars was a big part of his personality, and those who knew him will remember the unmistakable sight and sound of John cruising around in his Mustang.
John was the youngest of six siblings. He was predeceased by his brothers George, Bill, and Jake, as well as his sister-in-law Nancy, Jake’s wife. He is survived by his sister-in-law Wenda, George’s wife; his sister-in-law Margaret, Bill’s wife, who has since remarried Fred Bos; his sister Lena Evers and her husband, John; and his brother Henry and his wife, Dieni.
John is also survived by his in-laws, Anthony (Opa) and the late Emmy Van Geemen (Oma); his sister-in-law Lorraine Van Geeman; his brother-in-law Tony Van Geeman and his wife, Eileen; and his brother-in-law John Van Geeman and his wife, Koreen.
John also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews.
John leaves behind a loving family who will miss him dearly and while his family grieves his passing, they find comfort in knowing that John has been called home to be with his Lord and Saviour. His faith was an important part of who he was, and his family takes comfort in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
Visitation and Memorial Service
Family and friends are invited to remember and celebrate John’s life.
Visitation:
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Bethany Christian Reformed Church
1040 Balfour Street, Fenwick, Ontario
Memorial Service:
Wednesday, October 14, 2026
10:00 a.m.
Bethany Christian Reformed Church
1040 Balfour Street, Fenwick, Ontario