Gerard Rene Derouin

Gerard “Gerry” Derouin (1946–2025)

With very heavy hearts, our family shares that Gerard “Gerry” Derouin passed away on October 9, 2025. Born on November 16th, 1946 in Pembroke, Ontario. Gerry was the beloved son of Anna and René Derouin (both predeceased). As a young man he moved to Sudbury, Ontario, where he met the love of his life, Judith (née Opaleychuk). They married in 1970 and soon settled in the small Northern Ontario mining community of Levack, where they started a business and raised six children. Together, Gerry and Judy were a formidable team—steady, practical, and endlessly supportive of one another—building a home that blended warmth, laughter, and hard work in equal measure.

Gerry believed deeply in community. He served as the owner and general manager of the Onaping Falls Huskies Junior “A” hockey club, leading them to multiple championship victories. He was a devoted champion of tourism and local businesses, always eager to highlight the vibrant people and unique places that made the community special. He had a gift for making connections: a quick handshake, a straight look in the eye, and a promise kept. He was well respected by colleagues, customers, neighbours, and friends because his word meant something. If a problem needed solving, Gerry didn’t take “no” for an answer—he found a way. He had an extraordinary knack for making things happen—whether rallying support for a local team, creating opportunities for those just beginning their journey, or stepping in personally to see a task through to completion.

In 1999, Gerry, Judy and their children moved to Sutton, Ontario, embracing a new chapter and a new business with the same determination and optimism that defined their partnership. Gerry always worked hard and put people first—staff, customers, and community. He was the kind of person who showed up early, stayed late, and quietly helped where help was needed. He led with action more than words: a lifted burden here, an encouraging nudge there, a phone call placed at just the right time.

To us, he was Dad and Gramps—the calm presence on the phone, the thoughtful ear at the kitchen table, the dependable strength when life felt overwhelming. He had a gift for lifting us up when we stumbled, while gently reminding us we had the strength to rise on our own. Nothing brought him more joy than family gatherings; he was happiest when we were all together, sharing stories, and laughter.

Gerry approached life with wisdom and a sense of humour. He valued effort, honesty, and follow-through. He believed that good work mattered, that people deserved a chance, and that communities thrive when neighbours look out for one another. He taught his children and grandchildren that character shows in the small, daily choices: keep your promises, help without being asked, and finish what you started.

Gerry is lovingly remembered by his children Mark Derouin (Kathy), Laura Therrien (Chris), Traci Richardson (Lawrence), Pamella Key (Steve), and Matthew Derouin(Cristina), and is predeceased by his soulmate, Judith (née Opaleychuk 2005) and his son Kevin Derouin (2014). He was a proud “Gramps” to Michael, Ashley, Nicholas, Kaitlyn, Sarah, Caden, Caileigh, Megan, Aleesa, and Sophia. He was the cherished brother of Elizabeth Temple (the late Paul),and is predeceased by his siblings Donald Derouin (survived by Elaine) and Mary Fournier (the late Ron). He will be fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, former colleagues, and customers whose lives he touched.

Family and friends are invited to join in remembering Gerry at Forrest and Taylor Funeral Home, 28046 Dalton Road, Sutton. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 15th, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 7:00–9:00 PM.

A Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday, October 16th at 1:00 PM at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, located at 20916 Dalton Road, Sutton West, ON. Interment will follow at Briar Hill Cemetery, 5500 Black River Road, Sutton. A reception will be held afterward.

In lieu of flowers, the family offers the option of donating in Gerry’s memory to either the Georgina Community Food Pantry or the Southlake Health Foundation’s Regional Cardiac Program. These contributions will honour Gerry’s legacy and support causes meaningful to him.