11/12/2025
POLLARD, Gerald Joseph (Gerry)
It is with heartfelt sorrow that the family of Gerald (Gerry) Joseph Pollard announces his passing on Sunday, September 9, in his 83rd year. A man of integrity, generosity, and quiet determination, Gerry touched countless lives through his work, family and community.
Gerry will be lovingly remembered by his children Lori Sokoloski (Ron), Stacey (Phil) and Jerry (Terri). He is predeceased by his daughter, Kim, and by his beloved wife, Ann, with whom he shared 50 years of marriage. Gerry will also be fondly remembered by his grandchildren, Erik, Kyle, Katy, Courtney, Chelsea, Cassandra, Vanessa, Rebecca, Evelyn and Addison, along with his many great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy.
Gerry is survived by his sister, Carole Reed, and predeceased by his sister, Joan Cormier. He will be dearly missed by his nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends who knew him for his warmth, kindness and easy conversation.
Over the years, Gerry built a respected career as a Plant Manager, Millwright, Machine Repair Specialist and Tool and Die Maker. Through his hard work, determination and skill, he consistently excelled in every position and was often promoted for his leadership, kindness and dedication. He made many lifelong friendships through his work at Lightning Fastener, Lightning Circuits, CAE Diecast, GNB Batteries and General Motors.
A true entrepreneur at heart, Gerry’s creativity and drive led him to start several successful ventures, including a marina, an antique store, a car chip paint business and the best chip truck in Niagara. Even after retirement, he continued to innovate, launching a business refurbishing mobility scooters and other mobility devices, restoring them to like new condition and making them affordable for those who needed them most. His hands were always busy and his heart was always focused on helping others.
Gerry was a kind and generous man, known for his patience, sense of humour and willingness to lend a hand. In his younger years, he was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing, hunting, camping and spending time in nature. Above all, he was a loving husband, father and grandfather whose family was always his greatest source of pride and joy.
In his later years, Gerry’s quiet determination and community spirit left a lasting mark on the Sunset Beach area. Saddened by the neglect of what was then Municipal Beach, Gerry decided to take action. With a pail and a pair of old gloves, he began picking up debris. Before long, he had organized a group of neighbours and friends, creating Tuesday night cleanups that grew into a dedicated community effort.
His vision and persistence led him to advocate for better care of the beach, eventually working with City Council to secure proper maintenance equipment. Thanks to his efforts, the City purchased a beach cleaner and invested in revitalizing the area. Sunset Beach was reborn as a clean, family friendly destination that continues to thrive today.
Gerry never sought recognition, preferring instead to see families enjoying the park he worked so hard to restore. As one volunteer said, “In my mind’s eye, I see Gerald looking around at the progress his dream has brought.” City Councillor Bill Phillips added, “If it wasn’t for Gerry, Sunset Beach would not be what it is today. He was a true gentleman in every way and we were privileged to work with him.”
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 to 4:00 pm on Sunday, November 16, 2025 at the Royal Canadian Legion, Port Dalhousie Br. #350, 57 Lakeport Road, St. Catharines.
Those wishing to honour Gerry’s memory may consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or towards a memorial bench at Sunset Beach. https://donate.mytributegift.org/?cid=b1df05e51db1924fe70f7918bb6761ffbdab820b4f0d898432aa3e3d7c98e1fa&fh=FRP-308918&fp=3089186b5c6c0632d102cc0b9fbb841d8e
Gerry’s legacy lives on not only through his family, but in every footprint along Sunset Beach, a place forever shaped by his hard work, vision and generous spirit.
Arrangements entrusted to Considerate Cremation & Burial Services, 26 Nihan Drive, St. Catharines (between Lake Street & Scott Street), 289-362-1144. Online condolences may be made at CCBSCares.ca
