Gerri passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at VGH. Gerri was born in Cape Breton and moved to Victoria in the early 1970s. She is survived by her husband Harry of almost 45 years and her three children Kris (Marni), Tara (John), Amanda (David) and grandchildren Bianca, Sophia, Alexander, Jozef, Aidan and Fiona. She also came from a large family with many siblings, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Gerri had a long nursing and health care career encompassing a variety of positions and hospitals. Her longest time being at the Gorge Road Hospital and retiring from VGH several years ago as the Unit Clerk on 5 North. She made several life long friends during her career and was very proud of the work she accomplished.
The home that the Ruitenbeeks created was full of laughter and love and included many foster children and friends of their children. In the early years of raising kids, Gerri could be found at the baseball park keeping score or at the church involved in an activity. Summer weekends were spent camping, hiking and spending time at her favourite place French Beach with good friends.
After her children grew up, her grandkids became her light and she took great delight in their lives and loved being an Oma. She would visit those out of province whenever she could and she and Opa have been a huge presence in the lives of the grandkids here.
Constantly at her sewing machine, she was always creating new designs. A quilt or dress from her was a special gift and to be treasured.
She lit up a room and was a force to be reckoned with. She loved helping people and had a huge heart that she shared openly.
Gerri loved God and spending time in His presence. She wasn’t shy about sharing her faith and speaking her truth. She touched many lives during her time here and will be greatly missed by all left behind. Her spirit, strength, and goodness will be with us in our hearts eternally.
A special thank you for the loving care and kindness of the Doctors, Nurses, and Staff at the VGH ICU.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, May 21st, 2019 at 3 pm at Colwood Pentecostal Church located at 2250 Sooke R0ad, followed by a reception in the church hall.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to Victoria Hospital Foundation @ victoriahf.ca and follow the links in honour of a loved one or
Victoria Women’s Transition House Society @ www.transitionhouse.net
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
29 Responses
So sorry to hear this news; worked with Jerri at the Gorge Road Hospital for many years. Good times. RIP.
I have many, many great memories of my former neighbour and friend – and her family! My sincerest condolences. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
To Harry,
Bill and I are so sorry for your loss, our hearts go out to you and your family.
Our deepest condolences to Harry and all the family.
We know that she will be greatly missed by
everyone.
It was our great pleasure to know her and her
passing leaves a big hole.
Thank you Gerri.
Cheryl and John Hunter
Our deepest sympathy Harry, to you and your family. So many treasured memories working with Gerri at the GRH and on 5N. A life so well lived and loved,
Judy Becker
So sorry Harry and family,
Gerri and I had many chats during our years working at the Gorge.
She was a sweet lady and will be missed.
My deepest condolences to the family.
Gerri was a wonderful woman and she will be greatly missed.
Michael and Pauline Barber
Gerri may have been my friends’ mom, my soccer coach’s wife but Gerri was also my teacher, my shoulder, my friend. There was always safety in Gerri’s kitchen, she allowed us to be kids, be creative and have fun! She was always up for a card game, a chat and especially a hug! She expressed her love, her faith and her complete passion for her family with so much intensity it was infectious. Gerri taught me the power of prayer and the strength of love. Gerri was a remarkable woman, I am honoured to have been in her life. My deepest condolences to Harry, Kris, Tara, Amanda and families, Gerri was truly amazing.
Unbelievable sadness, I will always remember her.
Pat Ferguson