Date of Birth: June 1, 1958
Date of Death: April 4, 2018
Gerald, of the Melville district, passed away Wednesday, April 4, 2018, at the age of 59 years.
Gerald Allan was born June 1, 1958, to Mike and Sophie Popiuk in Melville, SK. He was raised on the family farm three miles east of town, where he attended the Fairland School. At the age of 15, the family uprooted from the farm and moved into Melville, where he attended Melville Junior High.
Starting work at a young age, Gerry helped build the first Dairy Queen in Melville. He started his career with the CN railway in 1976, moving to Raymore. After 23 years of service with CN, Gerry took his Class 1A course and became a professional driver. His career toured him across North America to destinations such as Chicago, Ill., Brownsville, Texas, Montreal and Quebec.
At the age of 20, Gerry met the love of his life, and 10 years later married Rhonda Kramer at their blue jean ceremony. The love of fishing, camping and picking mushrooms and berries was shared between the two. In 1984 the couple set down roots on an acreage five miles south of Melville. Together they envisioned, designed, landscaped and ultimately built their pride and joy.
Gerry was known for being incredibly generous. He was a staple at all family events with helping hands and a happy heart. He enjoyed kicking his nieces’ and nephews’ butts in a good ol’ game of bean bags.
Gerry will be deeply missed by his wife, Rhonda, and buddy, Spike. Also grieving his loss is his sister, Sharon (Murray); sister-in-law, Cec; in-laws, Sam and Josie; sister-in-law, Memori (Jim); brother-in-law, Steven (Sherri); and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Mike and Sophie; sisters, Marlene and Nancy; and brother, Les.
Heartfelt thank yous to Jim, Sherri and Robin Zelko for always being there when needed. Gerry valued your thoughtfulness and friendship.
A gathering to celebrate Gerry’s life was held Saturday, April 14, 2018, at Matthews Funeral Home, Melville. Close friend Gary Tank led the service, with the eulogy given by Anna Marie and Janna. Further tributes were offered by niece and nephew, Nicole and Cory and close friends, Jim, Sheri and Robin, and Rodney, Adam and Jay. A slide presentation prepared by Mike, Nicole and Krista was played, accompanied by some of Gerry’s favourite songs.
Memorial donations may be made to the Guardian Angel Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 1751, Yorkton, SK, S3N 3L4.
Arrangements were entrusted to Matthews Funeral Home, Melville.
