Gerald St John “Gerry” McKenna

Passed away peacefully at Victoria Hospital, in his 72nd year, on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, from complications of kidney failure and calciphylaxis. Devoted husband and best friend of Rae. Much loved father of Mary Kate McKenna (Jameson Gibson), Maureen McKenna (Steve Robinson), and Patrick McKenna (Sabrina White). Also survived by his sister, Carol Davé; nieces and nephews; many cousins worldwide; and his dog Bear, who he adored. Predeceased by his parents, Gerald and Maureen McKenna; his sisters: Jane Mary McKenna, Noel-Cherry McKenna, and Roberta Hurd; his brother, Terence Paul McKenna; and his granddaughter, Eilish Ann McKenna. He was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and immigrated to Canada with his family when he was nine years old. They settled in Toronto and after serving in the militia for a couple of years, went on to join the army as part of the Canadian Armed Forces, where he served for 28 years. His last two postings in Cambridge and London were part of the regular support staff with The Royal Highland Fusiliers of Canada, and in London with the 22 Service Battalion, which is where he met his wife. Gerry was a voracious reader and had many interests, from antique hunting and collecting to martial arts. He obtained his black belt in ShōrinjiryÅ« Kenkōkan in his late 40s. He loved golfing at Oxbow Glen Golf Course and spending time with his family. He was always happiest going to cottages and spent many hours with Rae fishing. Gerry played darts in the London and District Men’s Dart League as part of Mustang Sally’s team. He loved old clocks and watches and spent many hours with his friend Charles Bruner, who taught him the basics of clock cleaning and repair. Gerry also had an eclectic library of music and was loved by many for his sardonic sense of humour. The pandemic was hard on Gerry, as he was in the hospital for two and one-half months, spending most of that time during lockdown with no visitors. The family would like to thank his nurses, PSWs, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and the four departments at Victoria hospital that were instrumental in his care – Nephrology, Infectious Disease, Wound Care, and Pain/Palliative Care. A service will be held for Gerry at a later date. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in memory of Gerry are asked to consider The Kidney Foundation of Canada, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, Diabetes Canada, or a charity of your choice.