Gerald Moore

MOORE, Gerald Archibald –  of Gravenhurst  passed away peacefully at Castle Peak Retirement Residence, Bracebridge, on Wednesday, August 12, 2020, in his 88th year. Gerald was the beloved husband of the late Phyllis (Millward). Loving father of Douglas (Carolyn), and Sharon (Greg). Dear brother of Joan (Trevor).

As a private man and one of few words, most knew very little about Gerry.  So we would like to share a little of his life.

Born in Toronto in 1932 he enjoyed his early years in the Beaches area of the city.  As a young boy he enjoyed playing hockey and the outdoors.  He and his best friend James (Bud) Horne spent much of their time adventuring in the outdoors. As they grew they spent summers in Temagami camping and exploring. They once hitched a train car full of coal home to Toronto! Unobserved by the conductor of course.

He and Bud were inseparable and continued playing hockey together rising in skill and level playing in the Industrial League together. It’s been said that they had to be separated and not play on the same line together as they dominated the puck up and down the ice. Games of shinny included some NHL hockey greats.

It was during this time that Gerry met a beautiful girl named Phyllis.  His forever person. A no nonsense woman that loved the outdoors and was not afraid of a little adventure, however, Gerry’s prized Triumph motorcycle was a little too much adventure and it was sold soon after they met. It must have been true love! They married and bought a house and settled in a quiet neighbourhood in North York. Gerry had become a plumber, working on some notable projects like the GM Oshawa Plant.

Gerry would tell the story of  working near the Orenda Engines facility that produced the Iroquois engine for the Avro Arrow. He said the entire building would shake when they tested those engines and that was a building across the street!

During a slow time in the plumbing industry, his best friend Bud who had become a Toronto Firefighter encouraged Gerry to apply. So he did. Being a plumber came in handy as he had to melt lead inserts into his shoes to pass the weight test! The rest as they say, is history.

Gerry was a Toronto Firefighter for 33 years retiring as a Captain.  His family is incredibly proud of this. But as Gerry said very recently, when given acknowledgement of his service by a fellow first responder, “I’m just a regular guy”.  His family knows differently.

Gerry and Phyllis enjoying the outdoors as they did, purchased a water access property in Haliburton County (more adventure) and built their escape from the city. They soon welcomed their son Doug followed by their daughter Sharon.

Gerry enjoyed the cottage in every season. Being an avid snowmobiler, winters were a great time to get away from the city, and the cottage the perfect spot  to visit with the guys and head off on yet another adventure. This cottage remains and is loved and enjoyed by the family, 60 years later.

When retirement came around, Gerry and Phyllis moved to Gravenhurst and enjoyed being only an hour from the cottage. Gerry enjoyed his Retired Police and Firefighter Breakfasts and volunteering at the Grace and Speed Museum restoring wooden boats. Many friends were made in the community.

Although the last 8 months were less than ideal for Gerry, he never complained or felt sorry for himself.  Predeceased by his beloved wife, his friends from childhood and from the fire department, they are now all reunited. He and Bud can again dominate the ice, playing hockey and maybe pull some strings for their Toronto Maple Leafs next season!

The family extends many thanks and appreciation to Dr. Kappos, the incredible nurses of the second floor at South Muskoka Memorial Hospital and all the staff at Castle Peak Retirement Residence. The great care you gave to Dad and to us will not be forgotten.

A private service will be held. The family appreciates your care and wishes and asks that, in lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution in his memory be made to Camp Bucko. Contributions may be arranged through Cavill Funeral Home. Personal condolences and memories may be shared at www.cavillfuneralhome.com