GERALDINE ALICE RUBINO

Geraldine passed peacefully away, at her home in Perth, on October 29, 2025. She was the daughter of the late Gerald and Laura Latimer. Raised in North Gower with her sister, Jeanette Lynn, then moving to Perth, where her one-room schooling proved beneficial, as she skipped several grades. Gerry decided teaching was for her, while still 16 she entered her first classroom as a kindergarten teacher with the Scarborough Board of Education. She was 17 two months later. Married to Carl in 1962, she continued to teach, supporting Carl with a pay cheque while he completed his MA and PHD studies until she developed an illness that required her to take a year off. Gerry's interest in wine developed in concert with Carl's and out of curiosity for a newly developed wine buying cooperative called the Opimian Society, they became quite active members. The Society was hosting a wine tour of France, primarily Burgundy, and Gerry and Carl decided to go along on the trip. It proved to be an eye opener for both. Coincidentally, the editor of a wine magazine called Tidings was also on the trip, and noticing Gerry taking notes, she asked her to write an article about the trip. The editor was quite pleased with the result, and so, Gerry's wine writing career began. Over the next several years, Gerry visited and wrote about her excursions to vineyards throughout Europe and becoming well known in the wine business. Feeling the need to learn even more, Gerry joined with a group of men who were attempting to bring the British Wine and Spirits Education Trust to Canada. They were successful in this venture as they created the Wine and Spirit Education Trust in Canada. Gerry was the first Canadian woman to obtain the Diploma from the British Wine and Spirit Education Trust. She subsequently held an executive position with WSET and the President of the wine writer's circle. Gerry was invited to be a judge at the Banco d'Assaggio, Vinitaly Intevin and Sopexa Sommelier contest. Gerry left all of that behind when she and Carl moved to Perth in retirement. As they had in Toronto for many years, they continued to host wine tastings and gourmet dinners for like-minded people. Travel for fun was also important, and many New Years celebrated in the US, Canada and England were shared with dear friends. In the end, it was Portugal that provided us with the place to visit over and over again. A gathering to remember Geraldine's life will be held at a later date. In honour of her, memorial contributions to either Lanark Animal Welfare Society (LAWS) or the Perth Site - Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital Foundation would be appreciated. Arrangements are in the care of Blair & Son Funeral Home, Perth. For condolences, visit our website at www.blairandson.com.