Passed away suddenly at Stratford General Hospital on Wednesday May 20, 2026 in his 71st year. Gerry was born and raised in Stratford. He is survived by his true love and lifelong travel buddy of 46 years, Nancy Léger.
Gerry is the beloved father of Justin (Lisa) of Innerkip and Rachelle Forrest (Derrick) of Stratford. He was the proud “Grumpa” of Austen and Brinley Forrest, and the doating “Pa Pa Gerry” to Sophia and Hannah Léger. Gerry was also the new step-grandpa to Mason Hutton.
He is also survived by his mother-in-law Hazel Huras, sisters Claire Willoughby (Tom) of Flesherton, Diane Schneyderberg of Orangeville, sisters-in-law Mary Jane Léger of Wingham, sisters-in-law Susan McEwen (Rob) and Faye Wreford (Paul) both of Stratford.
He was predeceased by his parents, Jackie and Ken Léger, his brother Bob Léger, his brother-in-law Tony Schneyderberg and his father-in-law Raymond Huras.
Gerry was a talented welder-fitter who worked at Cooper Energy Services, Steelcraft and finally at Ron Bailey Metal Works. He made beautiful flowers out of metal, and he was a talented carpenter. Gerry loved all sports, especially football, baseball, golf, fishing and hockey. He was cheering for his beloved Montreal Canadiens to win the Stanley Cup. He started to play goalkeeper in recreational hockey league when he was in his 40’s. Gerry loved a good practical Joke. No-one was safe from his wicked sense of humour.
Visitation will be held Saturday May 30, 2026 at the W.G. Young Funeral Home at 430 Huron Street Stratford from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Jack Hetzel officiating. A reception will follow. Interment at Avondale Cemetery at a later date.
Donations in Gerry’s memory are gratefully accepted to St. Peters Lutheran Church Stratford or the Heart and Stroke Foundation Ontario through W. G. Young Funeral Home www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com
The family would like to extend thanks to Dr Sean Blaine and the staff of the emergency department at Stratford General Hospital for their kindness and care. Stratford should be extremely proud of their health care workers.
