GERALD ANTHONY (GERRY) GAYNOR
August 8, 1961 to April 29, 2021
With shattered hearts, we announce, on April 29th, 2021, with his “girls”, as he affectionately called us, at his side, at home, Gerald Anthony (Gerry) Gaynor, of Goderich, at the age of 59 years, who lost his courageous, 13-year battle with multiple brain tumours. Survived by his wife, best friend, and soulmate of almost 40 years, Michelle (nee Boyce) and his daughter, Tiffany Gaynor, who he was so fiercely proud of. He never missed an opportunity to brag to anyone who would listen about his daughter, the Veterinarian. Gerry will be sadly missed by his father, Leon Gaynor (Sandra) of Goderich, and brothers, Mark (Peggy) of Walkerton, Larry (Michele) of Goderich, and Randy of Benmiller. Predeceased by his mother, Thelma, who Gerry missed every single day for the past twenty-five years, who now welcomes him into Heaven with open arms, brothers Melvin and Mathew, and nephew, Dane. Also survived by several nieces and nephews. Gerry was loved and will be missed by father and mother-in-law, Ken and Evelyn Boyce, of Goderich. Gerry is also survived by his retired Standardbred mares, Jetset Incredibabe and Jetset Tiffany. Gerry was a participant in the standardbred harness racing community for 50 years, starting out cleaning stalls at the Goderich Racetrack as a young boy and eventually becoming an owner, trainer and driver. Gerry was also a long time employee at the Goderich Salt Mine. He was also a passionate Detroit Red Wings fan. Gerry will be remembered and missed by his good friends Bob and Marie Daer, Kevin Campbell and Dianne Foster, and Burt Newman. Special thanks to the South West Lynn homecare services for providing your excellent healthcare providers in order to allow Gerry to remain at home as was his wish, in particular, Debbie Robertson. You are an amazing person who provided excellent and compassionate care to Gerry these past five weeks and allowed him to retain his dignity. We could not have fulfilled his wish without you. Special thanks also to Dagny Kane-Haas for your amazing physiotherapy with Gerry over the past years, keeping him strong and giving him the strength to continue to look after his family. You treated him with respect and compassion and we are honoured to call you our friend. Dr. Mark Duckworth, thank you for your home visits. I thought those were a thing of the past, until you. Kimberley Buttineau, what a special friend and neighbour you are, delivering us home cooked meals so that we didn’t have to take time away from caring for Gerry in order to cook and for being here for us these past couple of days, taking care of things we just couldn’t face. Goodbye, Gerry, we love you so much and don’t know how we will carry on without you. You were an amazing husband and father. Rest in peace, Babe. You were the best..
Due to covid restrictions, the family will meet for a private family graveside service held at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery. Donations to the Ontario Standardbred Adoption Society would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy in Gerry’s memory and may be arranged through McCallum & Palla Funeral Home, 519-524-7345.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
John Hart
So sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. A lot of good memories with you guys back in the hockey days. Trips to Niagara Falls etc . He will be truely missed. John and Brenda Hart
dwight benson
so sorry to hear of Gary’s passing, had chats at the race track lots of times, our condolences and prayers, Dwight and Cathy Benson
Jean and Rod Jervis
Michelle and Tiffany – we were so sorry to hear of the passing of your beloved Gerry. May you hold your precious memories of him close to your heart.
Hugs, Jean and Rod
Gary and Lori Erb
Michelle, Tiffany and the Gaynor families.
We are so sorry to hear of Gerrry’s passing. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Michele Sykes
Our condolences to the Gaynor family. May loving memories bring you comfort, peace, and strength.
Randy Gaynor
Well Howie
I know you will be with mom and all your horse racing buddies by now. I am sure there will be lots of those ‘second right’ and ‘if only the wire was ten feet further,’ stories being told.
I already miss our racing chats and teasing you about the Detroit Red Wings.
Howie, please Rest in Peace and be assured you will never be forgotten.
Until we meet again GG!
Ron & June Corriveau
Michelle, Tiffany, Leon, Larry and the Gaynor families:
Very sorry to hear that Gerry had passed away. He fought so hard to stay with you. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time.
Dagny Kane Haas
I am so grateful to have had the pleasure to know and work with Gerry. He was such a determined, funny and smart man. His loss will be felt forever. My heart goes out to you Michele and Tiffany, may your memories of him help you through these difficult times.
Mary Lynn Weaver
I am so so sorry for your loss Michelle. Thinking of you during this very difficult time.
Claire Reynolds
To the Gaynor Families,
Our sympathies go out to you all on hearing of Gerrys passing. May you remember all the good times you shared, these memories will hopefully bring you some comfort.
Mike and Claire Reynolds
Carolyn Carter
Michelle, Tiffany and the entire Gaynor Family!
We are so sorry to hear of Gerrys’ passing.
He fought a tough battle and will be truly missed. He was an awesome guy!
Please know you are in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Chris & Carolyn Carter
Donna & George Adams
Michelle & Tiffany: Our deepest condolences to you both on the passing of Gerry. You are wished peace to bring comfort during the difficult days ahead; Courage to face those days; and Loving memories to forever hold in your hearts. You are both in our thoughts and prayers.
Debb Koot
So sorry to hear the news of Gerry’s passing. I am thankful that I was able to have met both of you in my life. May God be with you.
Love and Light,
Debb Koot.
Sylke & George Hickey
Our sympathies to you Michelle, and your daughter and families. Gerry had the strongest spirit and positive outlook. May he rest in peace.
CArol Williams
I am so very sorry to hear of Gerrys passing Michelle, Gerry was a great man and only our dearest sympathies goes out too you and your sweet daughter Tiffany xo
Allan & Christine McWhinney
Michelle and Tiffany and Families. We were so saddened to hear the news of Gerry’s passing. What a fighter he was and such a big loss for you all. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. I’m sure there will be lots of horse stories going on up there right now.
Denis & Shelley Kerr
Michelle, Dr Tiffany and the entire Gaynor family. Gerry fought a hard battle throughout the 13 years with Michelle by his side. We had many, many good times together whether it be in the at the Goderich Racetrack, in the Dominican, The Little Brown Jug, many Saturday nights at Hanover Raceway, Every Sunday at Clinton Raceway for I don’t know how many years, sitting on the hill…. back yard BBQ’s, Paddy O’Neils, seeing our children grow up together, there we were always together. Been through a rough few years Gerry… and we will never ever forget our “Howie Gator”. You have been in our hearts throughout these busy last few years. … Michelle and Tiff have been the most exceptional, selfless, family you could ever have dreamed about. Goodbyes are not forever, they are not the end, they simply mean we will miss you, until we meet again ❤️ We know you are up there winning those races every night!! Rest In Peace our dear friend…. your pain is gone and His arms have welcomed you to eternal life. So long our friend …
Vicki Beattie-Lobb
To the Gaynor/Boyce Family
So sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. Thinking of you at this difficult time.
Vicki Beattie-Lobb
Dan Donnelly
I remember Gerry as a good, good man. Rest in Peace Gerry. My condolences to Michelle and Tiffany
Karen Holtby
Michelle, Tiffany and the Gaynor/Boyce families. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Keep the memories close to your heart. I worked with Thelma years ago for the County in the Court Hose. Her 4 boys just lit up her life. Yes, Gerry you are one of those. We used to go to all their events. Racing at Goderich Race Track, Hockey, ball games etc. (I am Joyce Scotchmer sister).
Gerry Roebuck
Michelle, Tiffany, Gabby and the Brothers, I am so very sorry that Gerry is gone but it makes me happy to think that he will be in a place where he will be fully back to the good man he once was and maybe ready to drive The Queen in a race where the track is always fast. His will to live and battle the tumors was amazing as was the support you gave him. Peace to you my friend and good racing.
Gerry Roebuck
Bill and Jo-Anne Wraith
Michelle, Tiffany, and the Gaynor and Boyce families. We were so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. Brings back lots of memories when we were small. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. Take care.
Mandy Duffy
Michelle & Tiffany
Thinking of you during this difficult time! May the amazing memories help you in the days ahead! I’m only a text away! I m fortunate to meet Gerry and you 5 or 6 years ago! We had so much in come and we clicked! I’m truly sorry!
Pat Johnston
Leon, Sandra, Larry, Michelle and the families of Gerry
We were very saddened to read of Gerry’s passing, thinking of you at this sad time. May you find peace and comfort in the many memories that you have of him.
He fought a long hard fight and now soars with the angels.
Pat Johnston and Bob Desjardins
Rosemary Beange
Dear Leon, Sandra and all the Gaynor and Boyce families,
Our sincere condolence to you on the passing of Gerry.
Cherish your wonderful memories.
Allan& Rosemary
Bernice Grimo (Shackleton)
I always admired Gerry as a very pleasant gentleman. Someone whose visits were a pleasure. My thoughts for peace and embracing good memories to his family.
Terry Dick
To Michelle, Tiffany and the entire Gaynor Family. Our condolences on Gerry’s passing. It has been a long difficult journey for all of you. Michelle and Tiffany I am sure you will have many loving moments.
Jim and Terry Dick
Dr. Bernd Kretzschmar
So sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing and condolences to the family. Gerry visited many times the then London Equine Hospital with several horses. It was always clear he wanted the best for his horses. Gerry being close in age treated me with nothing but respect and was client I looked forward to see. Gerry worked hard to race his horses in the best possible condition. I was sad to see him a few years ago knowing how he was a caring husband and father struggling with his awfully disease. I will always remember Gerry as one of my favorite clients. I am glad to hear his daughter has become veterinarian and the pride he must felt. RIP Gerry I still remember every visit you took to see me at the clinic and I am honored to have to know you. Bernd
Barry, Colleen, and Nick Bell
Our condolences to Michelle, Tiffany, Randy, and family. I always enjoyed racing with Howie. We had even more fun together after the races on Thursday nights. There will always be memory behind the casino in the homestretch of Clinton Raceway.
Dianne Dobie
Our deepest condolences to the family at this very difficult time.
Dianne and family
Cecelia Denomme
Dear Michelle, Tiffany and family – The love and caring that you shared with each other, will always be in your hearts – With special remembrance – Sincerely Cecelia
Ross & Marg Battin
Sending our Sympathy.
Cherish the Good Times !!!
Gerry was a Great Guy !!!
Cathy Dejong (Britnell)
Michelle I am so sorry for your loss.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
I have many happy memories of our teenage years together.
Larry Hughes
My condolences to the family of Gerry’s . He will be missed. Gerry was 1 of the good guys and I raced with him for years. His horses always looked good and raced well. He was one of the friendliest guys I ever met.
Ted, Vicki & Jordan Henry
Micelle , Tiffany and The Gaynor Family we are so sorry to hear of the passing of Gerry. May we offer our deepest condolences.
Tim Robinson
Very sorry to Hear , Gerry was a Great competitor Racing Horses and one of the Good guys in all he did . RIP Gerry ….
Clayton Mizen
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of loss Michelle and Tiffany and family. I so enjoyed working with Gerry in the salt mine during his time there and had many great discussions of his love of family and horses. I am sure he will be missed by all who knew him.
Tracy Moore
So very sorry for your loss. Thinking of you♡♡♡
Debbie Quaid
Dear Michelle, Tiffany, Boyce & Gaynor Families,
We are so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. May your memories fill your heart with peace during this very sad time.
Sincerely,
Debbie & Scott Quaid
Ray (Jake) Allin
My condolences to the Gaynor families.
Scot Little
My condolences to Michelle and the Gaynor family
Mike Hodges
Michelle and Tiffany
I am sorry to hear of Gerrys passing and know how hard he has battled over the years !
May you find strength in your memories!
You are all in my thoughts !
Sherry Craig (Little)
Michelle I am so very sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. The warmest of Hugs to you. Sherry (Little) Craig
Al and Brenda Shelton
We are so sorry Michelle and Tiffany in the loss of your soulmate and father. Gerry sure was a fighter, may your memories help you through the tough days❤️
Judy and Paul Kelly
Dear Michele and Tiffany
We are so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. Hold all your memories close to your heart to bring you some comfort at such a difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Mark Duckworth
It was a pleasure to get to know him over the last four years. My condolences to the entire family.
Debbie and Marlowe Austin
They say that cousins are your first friends and that is very true.
I remember being at Grandma and Grandpa Goods many times and you trying to get me to touch the electric fence by making me hold your hand, and me getting the shock.
I remember your wedding being one of the best times dancing the night away at Saltford Valley Hall. All these memories come flooding back now. I know your Mom would be waiting for you with open arms, she was always so proud of her boys and even more proud of Tiffany and her grandchildren!
I hope you are finding peace and I know you’ll be watching over Michelle and Tiff until you meet again. Rest in Peace, cousin, Debbie
Maryann Jones
Michelle and Tiffany
So sorry for your loss.
Sincerely
Tom and Maryann
Pat Healy
My sincere condolance to the entire Gaynor family.
Tom Williscraft
Michelle, Tiffany and family,
So sorry to hear about Gerry!
He was so nice to me when I was stabled in Goderich way back when. I’ll never forget that time and experiences there.
He was a great guy and I hope you can find some solace in wonderful memories as well.
Tom Williscraft
Patty Kisch
Sending condolences to Michelle and Tiffany and all your families. A very sad time .
Kathi Newell-Nicholson
Gerry will be greatly missed.
I was lucky enough to meet Gerry and Michelle thru Tiffany adopting one of our very favourite little foster dogs.
As animal lovers we all clicked and though I wished initially that I did not have to adopt Mr. Miyagi I was thrilled to know he was a great companion to Gerry.
Gerry and Michelle and I had many occasions to visit with each other over the years at various events and appointments and they were a wonderful duo.
Rest in Peace Gerry.
My thoughts are with you all.
Pat Healy
My sincere condolance to the entire Gaynor family.
Bill Henry
Dear Michelle and Tiffany,
Our sincere condolences on the loss of Gerry. Thinking of you and your family. Bill and Myra Henry
Burt Newman
I told you that you were like a Brother to me and im gonna miss you as a brother, We have been thru so much together these last 13 yrs and I will cherish every moment we spent together and helped each other out. but i have had to stand back and watch from a distance and it hurt so much. Michelle and Tiffany you are like family and the laughs we have shared over the yrs are so memorable. The 3 of you have fought this battle and i cant think of stronger individuals than the 3 of you. So proud to call you family. And Gerry please say hello to Brother Terry for me when you meet up Love for ever. Gonna miss you so much Geraldine, Bye for now but I know our path will cross again. All my Love Bartholemew
Dianne Harold Leddy
Michelle and family
We are so sorry to hear of Gerry”s passing, keep the memories close to your heart
RIP Gerry
Rich and Pooch Griffiths
Michelle and Tiffany,
Our hearts are saddened by your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you. May Gerry’s memories, especially the horse racing ones, be a blessing. Sincerely, Rich and Pooch
Ron Sowerby
My sincerest condolences to all the Gaynor and Boyce Families on the loss of Gerry. Sure was a great person and fought hard these last several years. R.I.P Gerry.
Craig Smith
Michelle and family,
Our sincere condolences to you.
Take care.
Your neighbours up the street.
Sherry Hodges and Craig Smith
Sharon Brown
So sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. Our heartfelt sympathy to all of you.
Sharon & Paul
Susan Franken (Chisholm)
Michelle.
Sad news to read Gerry has passed away. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Evelyn boyce
So sorry for the passing Of Jerry A husband Father, Brother,son & son -in -law May your memories keep you strong
Alan Facchinato
Gerry…what can I say, or is there words for this at all. It is sad that you left us, I remember spending many days and hours with you in our youth and as a workmate. I cling to the memories and even though we did butt heads on occasion, you were genuine sir, you will be missed, that I have no doubt…hold on to the memories as I will and never let anyone take them…
Gayle and Barrin Purser
Dear Michelle and Family
We are so sad to hear of your loss of Gerry.
He will be in your hearts and your memories forever
Sincerely Gayle and Barron(Barney)
Mark and Peggy Gaynor
God speed dear brother!
Missing you now but know you have found peace!
Love forever.
Judi williams
My deepest sympathy to all the Gaynor families,,,,, May he rest in peace,,,,,
Barbara Martin
It is with great sadness in hearing of Gerry passing. My deepest sincere condolences and prayers to you and Tiff. He will be greatly. Missed. RIP
Sylvain and Julie Babin
Please accept our most sincere condolences