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BORN
1937
DIED
2022
Gerald Hartley Obituary
Gerry was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on July 5, 1937. Gerry moved from Calgary, Alberta to Kamloops, BC in 1966 where he raised his family and was a prominent businessman.
He is survived by Rita, his loving wife of 62 years, two sons Ken and Dean (Michelle), two grandchildren Braydon and Caitlyn, and his older brother Harry (Joan). Gerry is pre-deceased by his parents King and Georgia. Gerry is also pre-deceased by his twin sister Elda Marshall who he was extremely close with.
As the first owner of Interior Display Services Ltd. and Showest Management Inc. he ran the BC Interior Home Show for many years at the KXA (Kamloops Exhibition Association) building. Rita and the boys worked the home show for many years. Gerry loved promoting the show bringing in BC Lions wide receiver Swervin' Mervyn Fernandez as an attraction one year and also TV actor Bruno Gerussi. Gerry made many business friends from the home show and felt proud that the show helped many Kamloops businesses market their goods and services.
Prior to the trade show business Gerry ran BCI Signs for many years. Today the illuminated sign on the Kamloops parkade still stands. Ken and Dean remember fondly assisting Dad as he drove around Kamloops washing the bus benches that he had built.
Dad loved telling the story of when he was a wrestling promoter, wrestler Gene Kiniski holding Ken and Dean in his two arms like they were bags of groceries.
He was a member of the Rotary Club of Kamloops and, like his dad, a Freemason. He had very fond memories of his time in the Masons and the friends he made there. As a Shriner he was a member of the Shrine Motor Corps and loved riding his motorbike in parades and other events.
In 1968 Gerry was the president of the Miss Kamloops Pageant. The black and white photo of Gerry and the contestants shows him with a big smile!
Gerry's favourite place in the world was Shuswap Lake. Many summers were spent there with friends and family.
A family gathering will be held in late spring / early summer. Should you choose to make a donation in honour of Gerry's memory, please donate to the Hospice and or charity of your choice.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gerald Hartley
9 Entries
Robert Milicevic
May 31, 2022
Ken I'm sorry for the loss of your Father and condolences to the Hartley family.
Ben Anders
April 12, 2022
Dear Rita. I have been away, but was saddened to read of Gerry's death. I tried to phone but number not in service, thus this impersonal approach. It was an honour to know Gerry, he kept me in my toes and was always an honourable person. Hope you can be well. Ben
Harold Lavack
March 3, 2022
I had many years of association via The Interior Loggers Association with Gerry at Interior Display.
Very strong individual, the very best at what he did.
A natural with people, caring, honest, fun.
He will be missed, certain individuals cross ones path, Gerry is one who stands out amongst his peers.
May the wind be at your back, safe journey my friend.
Harold Lavack
Jim and Laverne Aitchison
February 24, 2022
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
How you can show support
Nancy & Ron Drinkwater
February 21, 2022
1000 memories, boating on the lake and on the ocean. I still have the painting of fish boats a gift for helping with the shows. take care Rita and all the best to your family.
Timmy Proudfoot
February 20, 2022
Rita and family, so sorry to hear of Gerry´s passing, good memories of boating on the Shuswap, and the Kamloops yacht club, wishing you all the best
Ian Drinkwater
February 19, 2022
My most sincere condolences. Many fond memories come to mind working at the home shows. Spending time at the lake was always some of the best times.
Mark Betuzzi
February 19, 2022
To Rita, Ken, Dean and Family members:
I was so sorry to hear of my good friend, Gerry's passing. My condolences to everyone,
Sincerely,
Mark Betuzzi
Peter Walter Schwirtz
February 18, 2022
Rita my thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Take care. It is a comfort knowing that as I knew Gerry he was procative, moving forward with courageous decisions, even this last one. I feel blessed to have been in his company... warmest regards to all of his family.
Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results