It is with great sadness that the family announces the Gerard (Gerry) Sanche, at the age of 87, passed away on Tuesday, September 13th, 2022 at Extendicare Falconbridge, Sudbury. Gerry was born on December 21st, 1934 to parents Jean-Noel Sanche and Josephine Sanche (née Hebert) in Rainy River, Ontario, and grew up in Pinewood, Ontario. Gerry and Eveline (née Belanger) were married on July 17th, 1954 and enjoyed 63 years together before Eveline’s passing in 2017. They had five children. Gerry is survived by his children, Maurice, Diane, Claire Adair (Sam), and Daniel (Susette); his sisters Juliette Kozun (Al) and Fernande Roy (Gerald – predeceased), and his brothers Fernand and Henri (Georgette). He is also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well as nieces and nephews. Gerry is predeceased by his parents, his wife, and his infant daughter Jeannette. He is also predeceased by his brothers Marcel, Norbert, and Denis.
Gerry and Eveline raised their children in Coniston, Ontario. During this time, he was very active in the choir at Notre Dame de la Merci church. Gerry started at INCO in October of 1952 and worked there for almost 39 years before his retirement in July of 1991. He and his wife spent many years camping at Fox Lake Lodge in Cartier along with their children and grandchildren, fishing, kayaking, and riding his 4-wheeler with them. He spent many hours picking blueberries and strawberries to make jars of jam which he shared with his family. They also liked going to Cuba as they had met many good friends there. They eventually moved to Elliot Lake, and enjoyed spending time with friends and doing activities at the Renaissance Club. When at home, Gerry would spend a lot of hours gardening, growing vegetables and other plants.
The family would like to thank Dr. Roch and the staff at Extendicare Falconbridge for the care they provided Dad. We would also like to extend a very special thank-you to Dad’s PSW, Rita, for the exceptional care she provided, as well as the compassion, kindness, and friendship she showed not only to Dad but to Mom before her passing.
Memorial Mass in Notre Dame de la Merci Church, Coniston, on Saturday, September 24th, 2022 at 10:30 am. Friends may gather at the church after 10 am. Interment of ashes in the family plot at the Chelmsford Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the Lougheed Funeral Home. For donations and messages of condolence, www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com