With loving memories, the family of Gerry Ivany announces his peaceful passing on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, in Airdrie, Alberta. Gerry will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Elaine; son, Brian; daughter, Linda (George) Willatt; daughter, Carol (Greg) Luterbach; and his grandchildren, Christina Willatt (Andrew Wenaus), Stephanie (Christine) Baxter, JT Luterbach, and Ben Luterbach. He was predeceased by his parents, Bill and Belle Ivany, his brother, Ron; and his sisters-in-law, Ilene Ivany and Vi Matchett. Gerry was born on May 29, 1933, in Assiniboia, SK, and his family lived in Willows, SK. Over his 90 years, he lived mostly in Saskatchewan. In 2020, he decided to move to Airdrie to be closer to his children. As a child, he lived in various small communities in Saskatchewan, including Osage, Kincaid, Woodrow, Kisbey, and Milestone. Later, he attended high school in Regina at Luther College. After school, he started his career with CP Rail in Weyburn and married Elaine Matchett. Throughout their years together, they lived in various Saskatchewan towns, including Indian Head, Sylvania, Lafleche, Swift Current, and finally Moose Jaw for over 40 years. Gerry remained with CP Rail for 35 years, retiring in 1988. He began as an operator, working from 4 pm until midnight, and later became a Station Agent for about 10 years. He transitioned to Mobile Supervisor for the remainder of his career. While in Swift Current, Gerry took on the role of Press Secretary for the 1976 Saskatchewan Summer Games and also served as the President of the Chamber of Commerce for a couple of years. He coached his daughter Carol in fastball. Dad never missed an opportunity to attend and cheer on his children and grandchildren in their many endeavours. He was incredibly proud of each of them. Dad was a lifelong Rider fan and a New York Yankee fan. In 1952, he and his dad attended the World Series in NYC. In Gerry’s early years, he was an athlete who loved to play baseball and hockey, especially at Luther College. Later in life, he enjoyed curling and rekindled his love of golf after retiring, playing every summer day that he could for 26 years. An avid hunter and fisherman, Gerry shot a record book deer at the age of 71. Gerry also loved to travel and camp with his family, exploring Canada and the United States with various family members. Dad was a Shriner for 60 years, belonging to four different Shrine Clubs in Saskatchewan – Melfort, Assiniboia, Swift Current, and Moose Jaw. He played the drums in the military band for over 40 years.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gerry’s memory to Shriners Hospitals for Children (www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/locations/canada/about-us/ways-to-give). A Celebration of Gerry’s Life will be held at a later date. To view and share photos, condolences and memories of Gerry with the family, please visit www.choicememorial.com.
