In Loving Memory of
Gerarda “Gerrie” Runia (nee Bosman)
90 years.
Gerrie passed away peacefully on March 19th at the Elizabeth Centre after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Born in Rotterdam, Holland, Gerrie immigrated to Canada in 1952, settling in Sudbury in 1955. Dear wife of Jan Runia (predeceased in 1979).
Loving mother of Barbara Runia (Steve) Welland, ON, Marten Runia (predeceased 2004), Bonnie Kerr, Vancouver, BC, Janet Wolney (Dale) Calgary, AB, Ilka Ethier (Richard), Skead, ON. Dear Oma of Jenny (Paul), Jake, Jon (Danielle), Stacey (predeceased), Justin (Ash-Leigh), Dylan, Chelsea (Matt), J Scott and great Oma of Xander, Brock, Oak, Lunden, Hayden, Madison, Edwin, Neve, Ava, and Jett.
Gerrie is survived by her sister Lydia and sister-in-law Wil in The Netherlands and sister-in-law Marie in Australia. Predeceased by her parents and three brothers, Marcus, Jan and Ton. Fondly remembered by the Bosman, Winkel and Draisma Families; nieces and nephews, Calvin Presbyterian Church Family, many friends, and her dear friend Manja.
Gerrie was a co-founder of Northern Diesel (Sudbury) Ltd., one of the founding members of the Sudbury Elizabeth Fry, serving as president for eight years. Gerrie will be remembered for her career as a wonderful, determined, hardworking Real Estate Agent / Broker.
Gerrie enjoyed travelling, swimming and daily walks keeping her in touch with the neighbourhood. Gerrie took pride in her flower gardens at her beautiful log home on Lake Nepahwin. When asked why she so often returned to Holland, the response was “I return for the flowers”.
The family would like to thank the staff and PSWs at the Elizabeth Centre for their care and compassion. We are forever grateful for the love and care by Zeny Pagaling who has been at mom’s side since 2015.
“May the Lord God bless you all! May LOVE + PEACE + JOY abide.”
In lieu of flowers, donation to Calvin Presbyterian Church, The Elizabeth Centre Family Council, or The Alzheimer’s Society would be appreciated.
Funeral Service in Calvin Presbyterian Church, 1114 Auger Ave., Sudbury, Saturday, April 1st at 11:00am. Rev. Dan Reeves will officiate. (Friends may gather at the church after 10:30am Saturday)
Dress in the colour of your choice. However........”Any colour will do.... as long as it’s blue.”
Arrangements entrusted to the Lougheed Funeral Home.