Gerardus (Gerard, Gerry) Johannes Janssens
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of an amazing Son, Brother, Father, Uncle, Grandfather, Opa, and Friend, Gerardus (Gerard, Gerry) Johannes Janssens, passed away peacefully in Red Deer, Alberta, on January 8th, 2025.
Gerard was born in Nijverdal, Holland, on November 21, 1950, and immigrated to Canada as a young man. He had a deep love for dancing, the outdoors, coffee, creating things, and his beloved dogs, Ace and Vonni. Gerard was raised to be a hard worker, enjoying the art of fixing and building everything and anything. His creative side allowed him to construct custom ponds, granite/fiberglass wall art, and thoughtful gifts for his family.
He was a charming, loving, funny, and compassionate gentleman—a truly generous giver who touched the lives of many.
Gerard is survived by:
• Sister: Terry (Richard)
• Son: Stephen
He was also a proud father, stepfather, grandpa, and Opa to:
• Son: David
• Daughter: Ashley (Greg)
o Grandchild: Gabe Harden
• Daughter: Jennifer (Bart)
o Grandchildren: Piper and Lincoln
Stepson: Wayne (LeeAnne) Sissons
• Children:
o Joshua (Michelle) Sissons - Eden, Leon, Wilder
o Javin Sissons (Martha Zabel)
o Brittney Sissons (Mike Zapatinas)
o Arielle (Patrick) Herrmann - Alivia
o Courtenay (Jonathan) Heidebrecht - Gabe, Isabela
Stepson: Murray (Hetty) Sissons
• Children:
o Amy Sissons (Guus Luijten)
o Kristi (Mike) Rogers - Deklan, Gavin
o Michael Sissons (Valentina Belcastro)
Stepdaughter: Treena (Rob) Roden
• Children:
o Megan (Neil) Simon - Emily, Ethan
o Scott (Elizabeth) Roden - Alexia, Rebecca
Gerard was predeceased by his beloved wife, Twyla Janssens; his mother, Maria Janssens; his father, Arnoldus Johannes Janssens; his sister, Liz Janssens; and his nephew, Eric Allam.
Gerard was married to his angel, Twyla Janssens, spending 20 beautiful years together until her passing in 2022. He found a profound love for music and often enjoyed putting on his dancing shoes to dance the night away at the Red Deer Legion.
Gerry attended and was a valued member of Emerge Church in Sylvan Lake. He will always be remembered in our hearts for his gentle, giving nature and will be deeply missed by all of his family and friends.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, support staff, and the many caring nurses in Red Deer for their kindness and support during his time with us.
There will be a family celebration of Gerard’s life later this year.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to Emerge Church, located at 4290 50 St, Sylvan Lake, AB T4S 0H3.
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