1945 — 2021

Gerald (Gerry) Kuffler passed away on May 3rd with his wife and daughter at his side after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Gerry is survived by his loving wife of 54 years Dianna and Daughter Tiffany (Chad) to whom he dedicated his entire life. His sister Marilyn (John), Nieces and Nephews Kim (Dianne), Nicki (Grant), Leane (Richard), Sherry (Art), Nicole (Mike), Christina (Anders) and Alanna (Kris) along with many cherished great nieces, nephews and friends. He was predeceased by his parents George and Annie, in laws Kevin and Elsie, sister in laws Carol (Larry) and Shirley as well as Nephews Jody and Skip.

Gerry was born in Stettler AB in 1945. Moving to the hamlet of Forestburg as a teen, where he would eventually meet the love of his life. Gerry and Dianna were married in 1967 and shortly after made their way west to BC. The couple bounced around living in Prince Rupert, Kelowna and Merritt making many friends along the way. After receiving his journey man heavy duty mechanic ticket the couple set up roots in Kamloops and welcomed their Daughter in 1978.

When Gerry wasn’t on the road working he enjoyed hosting family and friends poolside, working in his backyard workshop and socializing at the newly opened neighborhood pub (Duffy’s). Gerry’s career and life on the road afforded the family many vacations in locations they would have never otherwise seen working on notable projects such as the construction of the Coquihalla highway and the Kicking horse bridge project. Yet even with being away from home Gerry never missed the important moments in life, flying in for dance recitals, driving cross province for holidays, always showing up for his family no matter what.

In the early 2000s after Tiffany graduated and Dianna retired the couple traveled on the road together from the far northern reaches of BC to the deep south of the Kootenay region and everywhere in between until Gerry reluctantly retired due to health issues.

After retiring they settled into a quiet life in Penhold AB. Gerry spent his days finishing his basement and tending flowers in the yard, enjoying movie nights with Kim and Dianne and visits from family, passing on his knowledge of mechanics, electrical, plumbing and carpentry… if it was broken or you needed to build something all you had to do was ask Gerry and he was sure to help you out.

Gerry and Dianna’s most recent move was to Kelowna BC where they spent the last 2 years living in a resort community. Gerry divided his time between his yard, chatting with neighbours, the wood working shop and visits to his Daughter’s house in Kamloops.

Gerry was a loving husband, devoted father and friend to all who crossed his path. He had a passion for life and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. His big heart and warm smile will be truly missed and forever in our memories.

The family extends great thanks to the Kamloops palliative care team and the staff and volunteers at the Marjorie Willoughby Snowdon Hospice for their care and compassion.

Due to the current Covid restrictions the family has decided to hold a celebration of life later in the summer months when we can give Gerry the memorial he truly deserves.

You may express messages of condolences by visiting Kamloops Funeral Home.

 

• Date : 2021-05-03
• Location : Kamloops