Gale KERWIN

KERWIN, Gale January 9, 1935 September 19, 2001 God will have to referee his boxing matches from here on in. Gale Kerwin passed away surrounded by his devoted family on Wednesday, September 19, 2001 at 3:30 a.m. Gale went into the Civic Hospital August 1st, where he suffered a massive heart attack. Gale was operated on and given the Jarvik artificial heart until a heart donor became available. On August 26th he received the gift of a new heart. Gale was in the fight of his life. He remained courageous and strong until Wednesday morning when God sent his angels down to earth to take Gale to heaven. Beloved husband to his life long sweetheart and best friend Joyce Payne. Loving and precious father to Allen, Kathy, Shawn and Christine. Respected and loved by his son-in-law, Jeff Sisson, daughter-in-law, Rita Kerwin (nee Kruger), son-in-law Rick Desmarais. Adored by his grandchildren Ryan, Lauren, Kyle, Mitchell, Gabriele, Brennan, Brittany, Jessica and Tanner. Dear brother to John (Carole), Garry (Claire), Tom Kerwin (Jill), all of Ottawa. Predeceased by brother Don Kerwin (Shirley) of California. Cherished uncle to several nieces and nephews. He will be missed by brothers and sisters-in-law, Shirley and Stan Van Allen, Gary and Bev Payne, Marilyn and John Kevern. Gale will be sadly missed and everyone whose life he touched. Gale's heart became worn out from all the goodness he shared with others. Joe Louis once told Gale, "It is more important to be champ in your own home then it is to be champ in the ring!" From his darling wife Joyce and his children, he will always be our champ! Our special thanks to our wonderful friends, Dr. W. Keon and to his devoted staff and the many volunteers we spoke with daily. Thank you for taking care of our Sweet Gale for us. Friends may pay respects at the Kelly Funeral Home, 2313 Carling Avenue (west of Carlingwood), Thursday and Friday from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Funeral Saturday at Saint Patrick's Basilica for Mass of Christian Funeral at 11:00 a.m. Interment Capital Memorial Gardens. In memory of Gale, donations may be given to the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. It would be appreciated if you would consider signing your organ donor card. Gale would be so proud. Thank you to all of Gale's family and friends for your endless prayers and support. The Ottawa Citizen, September 20, 2001