Gerald Albert Defosse or “Jerry” was born on June 1, 1942 to Albert & Isobel Defosse. He had three sisters and one brother. He worked with his father, Defosse and Son’s Construction Company, a heavy equipment operation. By age 18, he was a crew foreman for his father’s company. In 1957 he married June Jenkins. By age 24, he had 5 children.In the 1970’s, he was owner of a shell gas station with repair shop and started his own Construction Company. In 1976, he married his second wife, Dianne Charbonneau.He went on to have 7 children, 23 grand children and 4 great-grand children of his own.In 1980, he traveled out west with the intention of relocating in B.C. On their journey, they visited Gull Lake and decided that this was the place to settle. He worked in oil rig construction, heavy equipment and trucking. He later went on to selling real-estate and planning for retirement. Providing quality of life for his family was important to him. He was a real story teller to children and could create an adventure out of anything.He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and gardening. A passion of his was racing. In the 60’s he was into drag racing. In the 70’s he was big into stock cars. His main passion was auto body and mechanics. He always had some sort of auto project on the go. Always busy doing something, he was known for his ingenuity. He was very proud of his Italian ancestryIt was important to him to be a great host. He frequently put on large meals, soup was always on. He loved to have a good time and share it with others.Over the years he created many great memories of social gathering and celebrations. Corn roasts, pig roasts and BBQs filled the summer. No matter what a person’s character, if theyneeded help, he would help them or take them in.Never passing judgment, his door was always open. He was a man of pride, great strength and tenacity. His words were“No matter what happens, when youget knocked down,stand up, shake it off and go on, never give up”. The Family would like to give thanks to the guys. Also a special thanks to Dan Hoffer. The life he shared with us and the memories he created will live in our hearts for ever. Thank you Dad. We love you. The Memorial service was held on Saturday, April 11, 2009 at 2:00 pm from the Knox United Church, Gull Lake, SK with Rev. Bev Diduck officiating. The musicians for the service were Millie Spagrud as pianist, Sharon Dahl as organist and King Gin as saxophonist. “Just As I Am” and “Amazing Grace” were sung by congregation, with the choir singing, “It Is Well With My Soul”. Catherine Harrison (daughter) shared the eulogy with a granddaughter presenting a tribute and poem on behalf of the grandchildren. The ushers in the church were Norm Leduc and Jason Todd. The Interment of Cremains will be held on June 1, 2009 at Trenton, Ont. In memory of Gerald Defosse, donations made to the Lung Association or to the Heart & Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Funeral arrangements were in care of Swift Current Funeral Home, Swift Current, SK.