Obituary of Jerry Ronald Toews

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jerry Ronald Toews on November 16, 2008. Jerry passed away peacefully and with his family by his side after complications resulting from a heart attack in September. Jerry was 64 years old. A dedicated and loving husband, father and grandfather, Jerry is survived and lovingly remembered by wife Marilyn; daughters Alison Toews; Alex (Grant) Urban and sons Zach and Evan; Angie (Steve) Balkwill and daughters Katie and Aimee; stepdaughters Kim Glascock and daughters Kennedy and Madison and Karen (Kirk) Allan and children Georgie and Joe. Jerry also leaves to cherish his memory his In-laws, nieces and nephews, cousins and a huge community of dear friends, colleagues and customers. Jerry is predeceased by his parents Tiny (Jacob L.) and Lena Toews and brother Bobby Toews. Jerry was born on January 13, 1944 in Herbert, Saskatchewan where he began his love of the land and farming industry at an early age. He often said he knew he wanted to be a farmer at the age of three when he broke up the back yard with his home-made cultivator? (his tricycle with a rake attached to the back). Jerry has great childhood memories. His father Tiny was a renowned stock contractor and rodeo announcer and Jerry spent so much time with his Dad as they pursued their passion for Rodeo. Staying in the community, Jerry ran a mixed farming and pure-bred Simmental operation near Morse for over 20 years. Alison, Alex and Angie were born and raised here. Jerry was active in the Lions and local 4-H club and an involved Morse/Herbert community member. Jerry also developed a love of curling. He was both a player and a coach and was very proud to have coached his daughters and their team to a junior provincial championship. When the Brier and Scott came to Regina, Jerry was thrilled when asked to volunteer as he had the best seat in the house helping compile player stats at the draws. In the 1990s Jerry moved east but he stayed in the farming industry as he and wife Marilyn both worked for the Farm Debt Review board and ran a farm just outside of Ft. QuAppelle. Jerrys love of and involvement in agriculture continued until his passing as he worked as a salesman for Markusson New Holland here in Regina. His natural charm, love of people and his passion for the industry were a perfect fit for his position here. It was a career Jerry loved. His colleagues and customers were among his greatest friends and he felt blessed to have worked with them all. A true Saskatchewanian, Jerry was a seasons ticket holder and dedicated Rider fan. Marilyn, Jerry and all the in-laws never missed a game or an opportunity to arm chair quarter-back the game. Those were wonderful times for Jerry and it was high-fives all around when the Riders were doing well . He was also an avid Swift Current Broncos fan. Broncos banners and flags were sent to Jerry in the hospital recently by friends to help lift his spirits. Jerrys greatest accomplishment and joy came from the wife he absolutely adored and his family. He and Marilyn very successfully blended a family of five (yes five!) daughters. Christmases, holidays, birthdays and just everyday visits from his daughters and grandchildren were his favourite times. His eight grandchildren were his pride and joy and he had a unique and special bond with each one. Grandpa will truly be missed. There is a great hole left in our lives as he leaves us, but while this is a time of grief and despair, we also feel great joy in remembering and honouring his life. We feel blessed. The family of Jerry Toews invite you to join us in paying tribute and celebrating his life on Friday, November 21, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. at Speers Funeral Chapel, 2136 College Avenue, Regina. The family would also like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation to all of those who have supported us during these last two very difficult months. Your expressions of compassion have touched us and helped so much. A special thank you to Dr. Moustapha of the Regina General Hospital for the care, support and encouragement he provided Jerry and our family. In lieu of flowers and in the spirit of Jerrys love of community, donations can be made, if so desired, to your local 4-H club. An online book of condolences may be signed at www.speersfuneralchapel.com