July 21, 1955 ~ August 9, 2020
It is with love and sadness that we announce the passing of Gerald Michael Gabinet.
Gerry was born in Westlock Alberta, July 21, 1955 to Peter Gabinet and Emily Zailo. Gerry is survived by his wife, Annette Anema; his daughter, Darrelle Gabinet; his son, Justin Gabinet; his stepson, James (Connie) Turnbull; stepdaughter, Karen (Krys) Dorozko; his grandchildren, Trinity, Ella Marie and Nolan Turnbull and Maverick Dorozko; his parents, Peter and Mary Gabinet; siblings, Bernadette (Sandy) Lyons, Ron (Debbie) Gabinet, Jennifer (Ken) Anderson, Chris (Veronica) Gabinet; brother-in-law, Robert Huber; and numerous nieces and nephews.
His family lived in Busby at the time of his mothers death. Peter moved his family to Vegreville and eventually to Edmonton. He went to St. Cecilia School and graduated from Archbishop O’Leary High School in 1973. He received his Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Alberta in 1977.
His love for his family was endless. He was quick with his wit and loved to tease everyone. He was an amazing father, step-father and grandfather and loved nothing more than having family get togethers for a meal or a BBQ. He was always willing to help a family member in need whether it was just a listening ear and some advice, or financial. Gerry was the first to jump in and help his friends and neighbours with any task and was quick to volunteer when his co-workers needed help as well. Gerry’s generosity extended beyond family and for several years has sponsored a child through World Vision.
Gerry was very involved in sports and had a passion for skiing and golf. It didn’t matter which game was on there was always a beer bet. On a putt, on a kick or a pass or a goal. There were many great Superbowl and Grey Cup parties at our house with a lot of fun and a lot of laughs. Gerry enjoyed his bike rides in the summer and his walks all year round at 5:45 every morning!
Gerry worked for Molson Brewery coordinating sales and sales promotion activities with the Edmonton Oilers, Edmonton Eskimos and Namao International Air Show. He sold industrial/commercial real estate which gave him an understanding of the role which economic development plays in community development. He was also in Parkland County and was the Business & Public Affairs Coordinator for a short time.
In 2002 he became the Director of Economic Development and Tourism for Strathcona County. Gerry had a passion for his job at Strathcona County and was well respected in the Community and among his peers in the Economic Development field all across Canada and the U.S. Among his many awards his greatest moment was in 2015 when he won Economic Developer of the year award as selected by his peers. In 2019 he received a lifetime membership award from Economic Developers of Alberta for his mentorship to young Economic Development Officers. Gerry and his team won many awards for marketing, communication, events and for their work in promoting Strathcona County.
Gerry was extremely proud to be part of the Commissionaires of Northern Alberta. He joined the board in 2007 and served on various committees and was in line to be Chairman of the Board when he had to leave due to a cancer diagnosis. He was honoured to be able to help the Veterans and retired police personnel that this organization serviced.
Gerry was an extremely positive and optimistic person. Even in his battle with cancer he remained optimistic it was a temporary set back and it was not going to beat him. He had an infectious laugh, he was a remarkable leader, always encouraging, full of joy and thankfulness. Although Gerry’s years were short he lived a monumental and impactful life. He will always be remembered.
Special thanks to Dr Scarfe, CeeCee, Margot and the team at the Cross Cancer Institute, Strathcona Home Care and the Palliative Care Team.
Celebration of Life
Due to Covid the Celebration of Gerry’s life will be by invitation only.
It will be live streamed at 2:00 pm on August 29, 2020
Memorial Donations
In Lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Gerry’s favorite charity
Terry Fox Foundation
6120 – 2 St SE #16A
Calgary, AB
T2H 2L8.