Obituary of Gerald Howard Alexander

Gerald Howard Alexander It is with utmost sadness that we announce the passing of Gerry Alexander on Sunday, February 5, 2012 at the age of 70. Surrounded by the love of his family he passed away peacefully at home. Gerry lived courageously through the challenges of his battle with cancer using his positive outlook and wry sense of humour to help lift the spirits of everyone around him. Gerry was born in Tisdale on March 30, 1941, eldest son of Lyle and Helen Alexander (nee Garratt). He lived on the family farm as a young child, attended elementary school in Indian Head and Moose Jaw and graduated from Central Collegiate in Moose Jaw. He studied to become an Architectural Technologist and started work as a surveyor for the City of Moose Jaw. During his 38 year career at the City of Regina, Gerry worked as a building inspector and with his hard work, diligence, attention to detail and integrity he became the Manager of Building Inspection. In this role he gained the respect and trust of the architectural, construction and property development communities in Regina. In 1987 he received the "Regina's Best" award for Best City Civil Servant. While with the city he worked at all three city halls and was responsible for the move from the old city hall on 11th Avenue to the old post office building on Scarth Street. Gerry was active in the Saskatchewan Building Officials Association and the Canadian Building Officials Association acting as president for both organizations. As a result he was fortunate to visit every province in Canada and had the privilege to attend a world building official conference in London, England. He formed many professional relationships and lifetime friendships during his time with these associations. Gerry was very active in the Scouting community. As a teenaged Scout he was awarded the highest honour of Queen's Scout? and travelled to London, England to receive the award. He was so dedicated to scouting that he and his bride Carol returned early from their honeymoon to attend a Scouting Jamboree. He went on to become a leader of his sons' Cub Scout packs. One of Gerrys greatest pleasures in life was photography. He had an amazing eye and was able to capture the perfect moment. Many of his extraordinary photographs decorate the homes of family and friends. He enjoyed Tai Chi and walking to stay in shape through his retirement. The church choir was a source of pride and joy for Gerry, every Thursday evening was reserved for choir practice, never to be missed. Gerry was blessed with seven granddaughters and loved spending as much time with them as he could. He was a voracious reader and passed his love of reading to his children and granddaughters. Gerry had a quiet strength and wisdom. He was there when you needed a word of support, encouragement or comfort during a difficult time. Gerry was predeceased by his parents, Lyle and Helen Alexander (nee Garratt), his sister Karen Richardson (nee Alexander) and Carols mother, Louise Naden. Gerry is survived by the love of his life Carol; son Howard, wife Wrene and their daughters Kathlijne and Nicole; son Geoff and his daughters Jessica, Emily and Brina; daughter Heather, her husband Erin Bayne and their daughters Hannah and Lauren; his sisters Janis (Vic) Plett, Barb (Barry) Matfield and Lila (Bob) Land; along with many nieces, nephews and other family and dear friends. Our family wishes to thank the Palliative Home Care Team and Allan Blair Cancer Centre Team whose professionalism, kindness and support were invaluable. A special thanks to our dear friends for their love and support during our journey. A Celebration of Gerry's life will be held at All Saints Anglican Church, 142 Massey Road, Regina, SK on Friday, February 10th, 2012 at 2 p.m. Flowers are gratefully declined. Anyone so wishing may make a donation in memory of Gerry to Prostate Cancer Canada (http://www.prostatecancer.ca/).