Gerald Anthony "Jerry" DePiero

1964 - 2021

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Gerald Anthony DePiero on July 4th, 2021, in Wuhan, China. Jerry was a gentle soul who was born on July 31st, 1964, to beloved parents Rodney and Sharon DePiero, and spent his early years in the family home on Moodie Street, in Thunder Bay. A free spirit who lived his life passionately, the “Jerry Way”, he enriched the lives of all who knew him by sharing his experiences and passion for travel, education, and music. From an early age, Jerry displayed academic achievement and a passion for learning. After graduating from F.W.C.I. High School, Jerry backpacked throughout Europe, staying in multiple hostels along his journey. Keeping with his sense of adventure, he then set out on a road trip to New Orleans, California, and New Mexico. As ad adult, he received a Masters Degree in English and History at York University, and a Bachelor of Education Degree at Lakehead University. Intellectually, he was a lifelong learner who unremittently sought knowledge through his love of literature and philosophy, engaging in many philosophical conversations and debates with friends and family - especially his mom. In 2014, Jerry and his wife, Gabby, moved with their family to Wuhan, China, where he was employed by the Maple Leaf International School, teaching and counselling numerous Chinese students, all with whom he developed special bonds. As a family, they continued their adventures, exploring beyond the well worn paths of tourists, and sought instead the back roads, where his family experienced and learned about the daily lives of local people. They explored many countries throughout Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, immersing themselves in each culture. This brings us to Jerry's third and longstanding passion: Music. Not only was he a historian of music, especially the great musicians of the 30's and 40's era, he was self-taught, accomplished at playing guitar, harmonica, and the accordion, to mention a few. This talent led him to become an integral part of the Thunder Bay music scene. Jerry was recognized particularly for his outstanding harmonica and vocal skills, emerging as a founding member of The Crosstown Blues Band, and later as a member of The Touch. Throughout his musical career, he was invited to perform and sit in with many local and touring bands. Jerry had a keen appreciation for several genres of music, particularly Soul and R and B, but his love of the Blues never wavered. Of Jerry's endless successes, his dedication to family will be remembered and treasured above all. He wholeheartedly enjoyed spending Christmas holidays with his sisters and their families, and taking many trips to Atikokan and Fort Frances, golfing with his dad and uncles, not to mention occasional vacations to the Florida family home. Keeping with his adventurous spirit, in his youth he sailed Lake Superior with his grandfather and uncle. More than anything, he valued providing opportunities for his children, A.J. and Dawn Marie, with authentic and unconventional learning experiences, instilling a sense of curiousity through his teachings. Jerry lived life loud both on the stage and off, not only seeing, but seeking out and bringing to the forefront the beauty and wonder in the world. Jerry is predeceased by his mother, Sharon DePiero (nee O'Brien). He is survived by his wife Gabby, son A.J. and daughter Dawn Marie, as well as his father Rodney, sisters Elaine Zewiec, Teresa DePiero (Darren Bailey), and Mary Carroll (Steve), nieces and nephews Nathan, Joseph, Rodney, Tia, Evan, Sydney, Jordan, and great niece Marlowe. AS well, he will be missed by numerous aunts and uncles on both sides of the family. All of these family members, as well as countless friends, mourn his passing. We are forever grateful that he was in our lives, and find solace in the thought of him continuing his philosophical conversations with his mom.

We love you, Jerry.

A Celebration of Life will be privately held at a later date.