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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
McNAIR, Gerald E. (Jerry) - Dad passed away peacefully at home, with his loving family at his side, on Thursday, August 17, 2023 at the age of 99.
He is now reunited with the love of his life Helen, on their 78th wedding anniversary, what a reunion it will be. He was a loving, gracious and devoting father of his three children, Georgina (the late Jim), Bruce and Marion. He was the best grandfather to Julie, the late Tim, Robin (Roy), Thomas (Sarah), Andrew (Meghan), Kyle and Nicole. He was a proud great-grandfather to Shepherd and Maeve. He is predeceased by his brother Ron. Gerald will be truly missed by his sister-in-law Sheila and his devoted nieces and nephews and their spouses, who were very special to him and were always there for his every need.
Gerald served in WWII as a stoker. He was proud of his service to his country, where he met mom and they shared 50 years together. They had 13 trips back to the old country, where family and friends were precious to him. He was a member at South Gate Presbyterian Church for 74 years, where he served as an elder, choir member and was always a helping hand. He was a Mason for 72 years and a Shriner for many years.
Gerald was a passionate volunteer to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Red Cross, Mission Services, the War Plane Heritage and the Haida.
He was always so grateful to his family and friends, especially in these last few years as his health declined. For their dedicated visits from overseas, homemade meals and treats, and rides to medical appointments.
The family could not have coped without the support of his Caregivers Sarah, Angie, Marsha, Florence and all others. Their loving support to him in the last days were amazing. We are forever grateful for them helping us during this difficult time. Gerald's family would like to thank all of those who grieve with us, but cannot be physically with us.
Resting at Cresmount Funeral Home - Fennell Chapel, 322 Fennell Avenue, East, Hamilton on Monday, August 21 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. and on Tuesday, August 22 from 2-4 and 7-8 p.m., with a Masonic Service at 8 p.m. A chapel service will be held on Wednesday, August 23 at 1:30 p.m and is available to watch through livestream using the link on the funeral home website. Interment at White Chapel Memorial Gardens, Hamilton. Reception to follow at The Shrine Club, 82 Melvin Avenue, Hamilton. If so desired, memorial donations to The Shrine Club of Hamilton, C.A.P (Cancer Assistance Program) or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. (Cresmount Funeral Home)
Ships served in: HMCS STAR - Enlisted 08 Jul 1943. Commenced Active Service 21 Jul 1943 as a Sto 1c, RCNVR HMCS NADEN - Drafted to NADEN 21 Jul 1943 HMCS BURRARD - Drafted to BURRARD 30 Nov 1943 HMS PUNCHER - Drafted to PUNCHER 11 May 1944 HMCS PEREGRINE - Drafted to PEREGRINE 17 Jan 1946 HMCS STAR - Drafted to STAR 24 Jan 1946. Demobilized 05 Mar 1946 as a Sto 1c, RCNVR
Jerry's medals: 1939-45 Star, Atlantic Star, CVSM, War Medal 1939-45 and the Arctic Star. Note: The correct position of the Arctic Star is between the Atlantic Star and the CVSM. Gerry received it decades after the war and it is not court mounted with his other medals.
HMS PUNCHER with he disruptive paint scheme
Engine Room department of HMS PUNCHER Click on the above photo to view a larger image
Gerald (Jerry) McNair - front row, 2nd from left with arms resting on his knees
Unknown Victoria Class submarine on the synchrolift in Halifax, NS
Gerald (Jerry) McNair (centre) at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, Remembrance Day 2019
Gerry McNair, shortly before he passed away, being picked-up by his nephew Paul McNair for a trip to the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum to see the newly restored Grumman Avenger that they have recently finished.
Gerry in front of the Grumman Avenger
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