Obituary of Gerard Thomas Leo Farrell

July 27, 1963 – Calgary, Alberta

September 9, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gerard Thomas Leo Farrell of High River, AB on September 9, 2023, after suffering a heart attack several weeks ago. The courage and determination that Gerard displayed over the last few weeks of his life were truly an inspiration to all those who knew and loved him.

Gerard was born in Calgary Alberta in 1963 and the family moved to an acreage in Okotoks in 1972. He attended school in Okotoks and as a youngster he was active in hockey, lacrosse, and soccer. He loved country living, riding horses, shooting pellet guns, and belonging to the 4-H club.

Through the years, Gerard has enjoyed a variety of jobs including working as a farm hand, maintaining motor homes at a family dealership and landscaping. His greatest passion and latest occupation were driving a large truck in the mines.  This career provided him with great joy and a sense of independence both economically and personally. 

Gerard had strong bonds with his sisters, nieces, nephews, uncle, and cousins and cherished his family. He enjoyed large family gatherings at Christmas and other celebrations. He was especially noted for giving heart felt greeting cards as gifts for all occasions.

Gerard was described by many as a kind, gentle soul. He was a private, humble man and enjoyed the simple life. He was known for sporting a ball cap and a Patriots sweatshirt. His friends were very important to him.  Gerard had a close group of friends that have remained loyal and steadfast since his school days. His friends had a longstanding tradition of competing in a yearly hockey pool.  Gerard was extremely skilled at picking his teams which is evident by his winnings and the trophies he displayed at his home.

Gerard is predeceased by his mother Molly Farrell, father Patrick Farrell and stepmother Betty Farrell.

He is survived by his sisters Maureen (Tony) Grandison, Jacqueline (Stefan) Ploszak, stepsisters: Lynn, Judy, Sharon, Valerie, and Hillary. Nieces and nephews:  Angela Grandison, Pierre Poilievre, Patrick Poilievre, and Daniel Grandison. Great nieces & nephews: Tyson Hansra, Mia Grandison, Alison Grandison, Daniel Grandison Jr., Valentina Poilievre, and Cruz Poilievre. As well as his uncle Dr. Robert Lindsay, Aunt Rita Farrell and many cousins, step nieces and nephews.

Many thanks to the Foothills Hospital Coronary care units for their wonderful medical care and kindness to Gerard and the family for the last several weeks.

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McInnis & Holloway (Deerfoot South, 12281 40th Street SE, Calgary, AB) on Thursday September 21, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Deerfoot South, 12281 40th Street SE, Calgary, AB) on Thursday September 21, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. Reception to follow in Dr. Robert Lindsay's home (723 Willamette Dr. S.E, Calgary, AB). Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Gerard’s service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Gerard’s family here.

In living memory of Gerard Farrell, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.

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