I was very saddened to hear about Gerry’s passing. He was a great mind with strong opinions, who was always interesting to talk with.

Being a long-time friend with Max meant that meeting his father would show me a lot about where he came from. The similarities between the two of them were notable and told me a lot about when Max came from. Max and I became friends around the same time my father died. They never got to meet, which is disappointing in a number of ways. I think they would have really liked one another. I am different than my dad, but the connective tissues are obvious. Knowing him informs people about me. I am glad I got that experience with Max’s dad. I think we are better friends for it.

I wish the best for all of Gerry’s family and friends in this time of loss. I especially want to pass my condolences to John, who was such a great partner to Gerry for so long.

- Mike D’Abramo

John, I’m sorry for your loss. Ger was one in a million. I will always fondly remember playing video games at Max’s and the look he would always give me when i arrived with my full Nintendo system to play hours of baseball or MarioKart - his look of… these boys are such idiots. 

We shared hundreds of hours of card playing, tens of meals, and a great relationship with his son. 

While i can’t say I always enjoyed being corrected on my grammar, since I heard the unfortunate news, every time I’ve thought of it, a huge smile has crossed my face. 

Please accept my condolences.

Stephen Barrigar 

I remember a wonderful night with Gerry many years ago when Max and Allie had just starting their relationship.  He, Peter (my husband), John and I went to the Rectory Cafe in the pouring rain on Toronto Island where we lived. We drank lots of good wine, had dinner and talked for several hours about working for government and its joys and problems.  We all had a strong interest in culture and architecture and Gerry was a charming and informed dinner companion, the very best.  I now knew where Max had gotten his wit and curiosity about the world.  And his curly hair!!  Gerry and John came to join us for several family occasions and over time I discovered his and John’s sweetness, especially with their granddaughter, Penny.  You will be much missed, Gerry.  But John, you are now the last of Penny’s grandpas and we are so glad to have you join the Valiquette family.

Penny/Nana

Cynthia and I are extending our deepest condolences on the passing of Gerry. Cynthia and I will be forever grateful for his assistance in helping us to relocate to Canada.  May his soul rest in eternal peace!

- Lilian

One of my fondest memories of Ger is when Max and I were in university. Steve and I would go around to the Valiquettes to play cards and make mixtapes (so. many. mixtapes.).

If Ger was around he would stick his head in and we would talk books. Books, books, books. He and I both loved Timothy Findley, from entirely different generational perspectives, and both had an endless appetite for discussion. 

I can still remember how exciting it was when Headhunter came out!

- Jane Tattersall