Gerry BOTRAKOFF

With heavy hearts we sadly announce the passing of Gerald Botrakoff. To all that knew him, he had many titles; Gerry, Big Ger, Dad, Grandpa, Papa and Big Papa.

He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Gerry was able to fulfill his wish and remain home with the help of his wife, family, and home support.

Gerry was born in Revelstoke, BC on April 26, 1939 to Vivian & Walter Botrakoff. He was the eldest of eight. He will be joining his parents and brothers John, Melvin and Ray who will be welcoming him in heaven.

Gerry is survived by his loving wife Gail of 63 years, his 3 daughters: Gloria (Norm) Aasen, Valerie (Blair) McArthur, and Jo-Ann (Greg) Jackson. Family was everything, and he continued to be blessed with 7 grandsons, 5 great grandsons, and 2 great granddaughters: Shawn (Estie) Aasen and daughter Kristen, Christopher (Nicole) Aasen with son Tanner and daughter Aubrey, Ryan (Stephanie) Aasen and sons Aiden and Ryland, Justin (Sarah) McArthur, and Matthew (Reminissa) McArthur and sons Lane and Cohen, Tyler Jackson and Travis Jackson.

Gerry’s first love was his family who he was so proud of. He spent many days with them in the mountains hunting, fishing, skiing, camping and berry picking. In the past few years when he was unable to partake in these activities but would enjoy his visits with the family and hear abut their adventures and share his stories. Often you would see tears of joy in his eyes as he either watched his grandkids or listened to the stories about their achievements.

Traveling was such joy for him and Gail who lived a very blessed life with the opportunity to travel to Hawaii, Europe, Mexico, Alaska, many parts of the US and all parts of Canada.

Gerry loved to garden and grew an amazing vegetable garden (over the past few years he would sit on the side and give us instructions on how to plant it). His yard always looked lush and green. Thank goodness Fernie never had water meters!

Gerry held very successful careers at the Fernie Hospital for 18 years and then went with the BC Ambulance as the Unit Chief for 27 years. He also casually instructed First Aid/CPR at the College of the Rockies.

As we move forward Gerry would want you to enjoy everyday, experience many adventures, enjoy the simple things in life, always respect the environment, and only leave footprints in the back country.

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