Obituary of Albert Adam Gerling

Albert Adam Gerling was born on June6, 1921 in Macklin, Saskatchewan to Joseph & Teresa (nee Breit) Gerling. Albert passed away peacefully on July 31, 2012 at the St. Joseph's Health Centre in Macklin, Saskatchewan at the age of 91 years. Abe & Hazel owned a farm 7 miles north of Macklin, where they raised cattle and crops. Abe was very active in athletics; playing hockey; winning a golden glove award (best defensive player) in baseball; and with his team, came 2nd in bunnock in 1995; as well as winning numerous prizes both in curling and bunnock. In his later years, Albert spent time discing and played lots of cards. He also enjoyed watching all local hockey, curling, baseball and bunnock games. Abe was often ahead of his time in athletics. He pioneered the flat foot slide in curling after he saw the famed Richardson brothers use it; in fastball, he learned the windmill pitch, and passed the knowledge onto his daughter, Louise, who became quite adept at it. Abe also enjoyed playing the guitar. He was a very talented guitar player; knowing at least three different ways to play each chord. He enjoyed playing numerous dances with the Ackerman's Orchestra, Dennis Sieben & orchestra, and a group which included his brother Joe, Johnny Bosch, and 'accordian' Joe Stang. Sometimes, Louise joined their group playing bass guitar and saxophone. In 2009, Abe & Hazel moved into St. Joseph's Health Centre, where they received excellent care. Abe enjoyed his grade 4 readers; treasured his family, friends and faith. He was always appreciative of everything done for him, always answering with a 'thank you', and when we were snacking or having coffee with him, he often said, 'put it on my bill please, thank you'. Albert & Hazel had three children, Wayne, Louise (Bleier), and Shelly (Schug). He was a very loving father; and supported each of his children in their interests and endeavors. Albert was so patient with his special needs son, and became an advocate of integrating the handicapped into society; yet again, ahead of his time. Albert truly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, and enjoyed every second spent with them - Kelsey, Shania, Tayna, Mattea, and Aliya. He was such a good father and grandfather. He was dearly loved and he will be missed greatly. Albert is survived by his daughters, Louise (Garry) Bleier; Shelly (Duane) Schug; his cherished grand-daughters, Kelsey, Shania, Tayna, Mattea, and Aliya; brother, Eddie (June) Gerling; extended family, Sharon Dushire, Dianne Ellwood and Bill Blue. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 63 years, Hazel; (Ellwood); son, Wayne; siblings, Joe (Francis), Mark (Zella), Leo (Dolly) and John (Margaret), Loretta (Wally) Giggs, Marie (Peter) Ell, and Hilda Blue; brothers in law, Ed Bleier, Grant Ellwood, and Don Ellwood.