Obituary of Gerald Ernest O'Bonsawin

August 9, 1943 – May 11, 2022

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gerald O’Bonsawin, 78, at Markhaven Home for Seniors in Markham, Ontario, on May 11, 2022.

Gerry was born in Larchwood, Ontario, on August 9, 1943, to Paul O’Bumsawin and Aurore O’Bumsawin (nee Brosseau). Devoted husband of Lorraine O’Bonsawin (nee Bishop). Loving father to Sean (Marie), Lisa, and Christine (Allin). “The best pépère” to Jazlyn, Paige, Skyler, Genevieve, Cole, Brooklyn and Chelsea. Beloved brother to Yvonne (Len-predeceased), Diane (Marcel), Norman (Pierrette), Colette (Gordon), Jacques (Lisa), and Lynne (Ken). Gerry touched the lives of many and will be sadly missed by his loving nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Gerry spent most of his working life with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board, paving the way for fellow visually impaired people to prosper in the emergent field of computer programming. He was a fierce advocate for those living with visual impairment, volunteering on multiple organizational bodies with the Canadian National Institute for the Blind. Following his retirement, he became a proud and trusted volunteer with Hope Air, working tirelessly to help Canadians access much-needed healthcare. Gerry was a kind-spirited, gentle, and loving man. He faced adversity with courage, strength, and perseverance, not allowing misfortune to define him or what he could and would accomplish. Above all, Gerry was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He loved his family and friends with his entire being. His passing leaves a gaping hole in our hearts, but we know that he is forever with us, through the lessons he has taught us and in the stories we will share. As the Toronto Star coined him, Gerry will forever be remembered as a “Man of Vision.”

The family would like to acknowledge the tremendous support, care, and friendship provided by the staff at Markhaven Home for Seniors and Chartwell Rouge Valley Retirement. On Tuesday, May 17, 2022, family and friends are invited to attend Gerry’s celebration of life at 1:30 at Dixon-Garland Funeral Home at 166 Main Street North, Markham. There will be a reception to follow (location to be announced). In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his honour to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind or Hope Air.

Funeral Livestream

You can access the livestream by clicking the link below and following the prompt to enter your email address. You will immediately be sent a link in your email inbox (please check spam/trash folders if the link is not in your inbox). The link sent to your inbox will expire, so please sign up to access the livestream on the day of the service and keep the pre-ceremony page open until the stream begins. The service will be viewable after the livestream, as well. The livestream is set to start at 1:40am.

Click HERE to access the memorial service livestream for Mr. O'Bonsawin.