Shortt, Gerald William
March 16, 1937 - April 16, 2024
Surrounded by family and love, Gerald passed away peacefully at Meaford Long Term Care on Tuesday, April 16th in his 88th year.
Gerald was born to the late William and Greta (nee Brown) Shortt on March 16, 1937. Son-in-law of the late Harold and Marion (nee Hare) McKnight.
Cherished husband of Shirley for over 61 years. Admired father of four daughters Colleen Raco (Dave), Carolyn Brown (Steve), Sandra Hill (Scott), and Valerie Wade (Paul).
He was the loving grandpa of Joe Raco (Amanda), Hayley Kuhl (Lane), Kelsey Fedy (Nevin), Karly Brown (Ryan), Tierney and Payton Hill, Thomas Wade (Corissa), Gareth Wade (Sarah) and a great-grandfather to Rhett Kuhl, and Amelia Newbold. He was predeceased by granddaughter Taryn Hill in 2013.
Gerry will be missed by his sister, Joan Vanderschans (Hank). He was predeceased by his brother, Ronald Shortt. He is fondly remembered by his sisters-in-law, Eleanor (late Ron Shortt), Doris Coulter (late Bob), Brenda McMillan (Don) and brother-in-law, John McKnight.
He was a wonderful uncle to many nieces and nephews and their families.
Gerald shared great memories of growing up attending Bethesda Public School and Meaford High School, and working on the family farm in St. Vincent Township. He worked at Amerock, Stanley Knights, as well as picking apples.
Gerald began farming at an early age having saved his money faithfully to secure a farm and he never looked back or regretted that decision. Gerald and Shirley started their married life together on their 11th Line farm. They shared their work ethic and love of the land with their daughters. They started off by milking cows, selling cream, raising pigs and chickens and later transitioning to beef. He was a dedicated farmer who took pleasure in caring for the animals and had a deep respect for the land. They retired to their home in Meaford in 2004.
Gerald first entered politics as Councillor of St. Vincent Township, from 1973 – 1982. He then held the position of Reeve for 18 years from 1983 – 2000, also serving as Grey County Warden in 1990. He was the first Mayor of the Municipality of Meaford from 2001 – 2003 and served as Councillor of the Municipality of Meaford from 2008 – 2010. He was the Chairperson of Grey Sauble Conservation Authority in 2000. Gerry also served as Director on the Rural Ontario Municipal Board for 8 years and was Chairman in 1995.
He drew great comfort from his faith and was an Elder, Sunday School Superintendent and an active member of Knox Presbyterian Church.
As well as serving his community through politics, he also contributed through volunteering with the Agricultural Society and coaching his daughters’ ball teams. He and Shirley could often be found out and about in the community visiting and attending events, playing cards, curling and bowling. He especially loved music and dancing with his Sweetheart Shirley.
Gerry’s family extend their thanks to the staff and residents of Meaford Long Term Care Centre who have shown such care and compassion, some affectionately referring to him as “The Mayor”, while he resided there.
Family will receive friends for visitation at the Ferguson Funeral Home in Meaford on Sunday, April 21 from 1 until 4 p.m. A funeral service will be conducted at the Knox Presbyterian Church on Monday, April 22, 2024 at 11 o’clock.
A link to a livestream of Gerald’s Service can be found below:
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Knox Presbyterian Church Meaford (Cheques Only), Meaford Hospital Foundation or the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family as expressions of sympathy and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON N4L 1B9 to whom arrangements have been entrusted. www.fergusonfuneralhomes.ca
Details
A funeral service will be conducted at the Knox Presbyterian Church on Monday, April 22, 2024 at 11 o’clock.
Make a donation in memory of Gerald William Shortt
Donations: Knox Presbyterian Church Meaford, (Cheques Only) Meaford Hospital Foundation or the charity of your choiceDonate with the following link(s)
https://mhfoundation.ca/donate/
Donate securely through Ferguson Funeral Home
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Gerald was quite simply “one of the good guys” who always had a smile, was always willing to listen and was a man that was easy to identify with. He leaves an incredible legacy. Hugs to the family that he was so proud of. Deb and Dan Shaw
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Shirley and family. Sincere sympathy at this very sad time. Hold tight to your memories. Jim and Coreen
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Shirley & family condolences to you during this time.
Larry & Cheryl Sutter
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
So sorry for your loss. Thinking of the entire family at this time. Gerald was always kind and caring , and anytime I saw him he always had a big smile.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Shirley, girls and family I’m so sorry for your family’s loss
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
I am very sorry for your loss. Although I ended up living near Ottawa making visiting difficult, I have alot of fond memories of the family get togethers at your farm when I was growing up.
Uncle Jerry led by example and was always there for his family and community. He will be greatly missed!! My thoughts and prayers are with you!!
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Shirley and family our deepest sympathies, we pray your memories help you through the difficult times .
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Our condolences to all of Gerald’s family. So sorry for your loss. He was a good man.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Our sincere sympathy to Shirley and all the family. He will be missed. We enjoyed meeting Gerald when we were out walking and he was biking (and cleaning up litter to keep the town beautiful).
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Shirley, girls and families
So to hear of Gerald’s passing. You will have many fond memories to share with laughter and tears.
His memory will be held in your hearts forever and always. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Dianne McDonald
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
So sorry to hear of your loss… sincere condolences to the family. He was a great man who knew how to listen to your concerns… even at the grocery store… and always did his best to help.
His caring personality has definitely been carried on through his family.
Condolences,
Renee and Andy Carter
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Dear Shirley and Family, I wanted to send my sincerest regards in light of Gerald’s passing. He was a wonderful man and I remember many good gatherings over the years. Take care,
Will Shortt
Kitchener, Ontario
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Very sorry to for your loss …our condolences to your entire family
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
I had many conversations with Gerald when he was riding his bike past our place on Thompson Street with his basket on the front usually was always half full of cans or garbage that people would toss on the ground. I always said to him I sure hope some of these young kids are watching what you are doing because someday us older folks are not gonna be around to clean up after them. He would always have a little chuckle or two we would get talking about politics about our little town. He was a great man and will be missed by all.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Our condolences to the Shortt family. GERALD WAS A GREAT MAN .Gerald you can be a leader in heaven just like you were here. Fly with the angels Gerald. You will be remembered
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Shirley and family, we are sorry to hear of Gerald’s passing yesterday. We are thinking of you and keeping you in our thoughts. We always remember the New Year’s Eve dances that we shared together.
Bert McDougall and Linda Stevenson
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Thinking of you all at this time. Gerald was a great man and will be remembered fondly by all.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Happy memories of him sitting out in the flower beds watching Shirley pulling the weeds, as I walked across to say hello so he could pet Violet’s head.
For 7 years he watched her grow from puppyhood.
Always with a big smile and an even bigger “Hellooooo”
It’s residents like this that make my job into my family.
Fly well Jer I will miss you.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Dearest Shirley and family
I have many fond memories of working with you at the hospital- you were a great role model. Sending my condolences to your famly- Gerry was a family friend and fellow 11th liner – well respected by all.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Our sincere condolences to Shirley, the girls and family. Gerald was a true gentleman. Cherish all your wonderful memories.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
I remember when I first met Gerry. We were both, country boys starting Grade 9 (Meaford District H.S.)
The last time was at the International Ploughing Match at Finch, ON.
We now live on the property once owned by the Shortt family. It has been a long friendship.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
My parents Murray and Lois Sewell had great respect and fondness for both Gerry and Shirley. We send sincere sympathy. His service to so many will have created beautiful memories.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
So sorry to hear about Gerald.
My condolences to you Shirley, your Girls and their Families.
I will always remember the two of you sitting side by side at Pizza Delight like a couple of teenagers. He will be missed.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Our sincere condolences to Shirley and all the family. Gerald was such a nice man who always took the time to talk.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Our sincere condolences Shirley and families, Gerald was a true gentleman and wore so many hats over his career, thinking of you all.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
To Shirley and family, I send sincere condolences.
Cathy Shaw
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Dear Shirley, Colleen, Carolyn, Sandra, Valerie and families,
Thinking of all of you at this very sad time in your family. Gerald has truly left his mark on this community. He brought his honesty, sense of fairness and intelligence to his political career and to his volunteer commitments and always greeted people with a smile. Gerald was a good listener and if he was involved in a project you knew that it would be completed. Gerald’s legacy will live on in his family. May your good memories of a wonderful Husband, Dad, Grandfather and Great Grandfather always be with you close in your hearts.
With our sympathy and friendship,
Jennifer and John Dorgelo
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
So sorry to hear of the loss of another one of good guys. My condolences to the family
Thursday, April 18, 2024
You’re Right On Koonie!
Thanks for Thoughts
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
It is with sadness that we heard of Uncle Gerry’s passing. He was fun-loving and a true gentleman. He was such a family man and gave so much back to his community. He will be missed by so many. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of need.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Shirley, Colleen, Carolyn, Sandra and Val and family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Cherish all your wonderful memories.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
My sincere condolences to Shirley, Colleen, Carolyn, Sandra and Valerie and your families, also to Gerry’s sister and family. I remember Greta as a wonderful nurse. I remember Gerry as a great friend. He will leave wonderful memories.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
My condolences to Shirley, the girls and families. So sorry to hear of Gerald’s passing. He will be remembered by many
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Our sincere condolences Shirley and family on Gerald’s passing. He was such an energetic and enthusiastic member of the community and at the curling club. He will be missed.
Wednesday, April 17, 2024
Dear Shirley and Family.
We are sorry to read of Gerry’s passing. He will be missed. We enjoyed talking with Gerry in the neighbourhood.
Cherish your memories.
Sincerely David and Muriel Hindle
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Shirley and Family, so sorry to hear about Gerald’s passing my condolences to all. He will be greatly missed.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
My condolences to the Shortt family. I remember Mr. Shortt offering me a ride to the polling station to make sure I voted.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Our deepest sympathy to Shirley, the girls and their families. Gerald was a genuine, well respected member of our community.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
A fine fellow. I had the greatest respect for Gerry.
He will be sadly missed but well remembered.
Sincere condolences to Shirley and all the families.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Shirley and family, my sincerest condolences on the passing of Gerald. He led this community thru many challenging times, his legacy will keep his memory forever alive. Thinking of you all. With much gratitude for all Gerald did for this Municipality and for Grey County.
Shirley Keaveney
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Sorry to hear about Gerald’s passing. Many memories of all his involvement. Thoughts to all the family.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Colleen And Carolyn,
So sorry to hear that you lost your dad. He was a wonderful man and I very fond memories of him. Grateful I got to meet him. My deepest condolences to you and the rest of the family. Lots of love and hugs to you as you make your way through this loss. Sending prayers.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Shirley and family, my deepest condolences at the passing of Gerry. I have known him since he was about 14 and even taught him some piano along with Joan and Ron. He was such a nice man, friendly, kind, soft spoken. It was always a pleasure to see and speak with Gerry.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Shirley, Colleen, Carolyn, Sandra, and Valerie and families our sincere condolences. A real loss of a truly gentle caring gentleman. He truly supported the community in so many capacities. We hold many family memories.
Jim, Donna and Morgan Shortt.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Shirley, I was so sorry to read of Gerry’s passing. There are so many memories of you both going back a long way. He will be greatly missed by you and all your family. His was a big presence and influence in a lot of people’s lives. I hold you in my heart and am truly sorry for your loss. Diane Bye
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Dear Shirley and family,
So sorry to learn of Gerry’s passing. He was a wonderful person and so dedicated to the betterment of our community.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
So sorry for you loss.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
My sincere condolences to the Shortt family in this time of loss.
May your many memories comfort you.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Our community has lost one of its all time great leaders. Gerald was a very honest, dedicated caring man who continuously gave his best efforts to his family, church, and the entire community.
His exemplary record on Municipal Council(s) for over 33 years speaks of his never ceasing longevity and loyalty as an outstanding local individual. He was always glad to offer a word of sound advice that demonstrated his abilities of guidance and mentorship.
Thank you Gerald for your commitment.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Sending sincere condolences, Shirley and family, in the loss of Gerald. He gave so much to the community in so many ways. May all of your wonderful memories help you through this very difficult time.. Sincerely Orville and Sue
Thursday, April 18, 2024
I didn’t know Gerry well at all, but I can honestly say his smile was always there and made me feel like a friend.
God bless you, Shirley and your daughters, as you support one another through this loss. Gerry will be remembered fondly by so many.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Dear Shirley and family
Thought and prayers through this difficult time
Had many chats lol coffee muffins with Gerald
Your a great man never be forgotten
Rip Gerald till we see you again
God bless Cherie and Ron Murray
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Shirley, Colleen, Carolyn, Sandra, Valerie & families.
Sincere condolences. Gerry was an awesome husband, father & grandfather. Also a friend to many. He served our community with dedication. As many have said, “one of the good guys”. He enjoyed watching his girls playing ball. He will be deeply missed.
Donna Brown
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Ron & I moved back to Meaford in 2003 & eventually you became our neighbors. It was a pleasure to get to know the both of you in our summer back yard events. It was sad when Gerald went into our great nursing home but any time one saw him he was always smiling & joining fun events. He was a quiet man but surprised many by his fun character. Shirley you were with him all the way & we know you will miss him but knowing you I think you feel peace for him. You are all in our thoughts & prayers!!
Thursday, April 18, 2024
Shirley and family, I always had the greatest respect for Gerald as he led our community through amalgamation which was very trying . He always had the entire municipality at heart. Gerald always rose to every challenge in an intelligent gentlemanly way. Meaford is very proud to have had Gerald Shortt as our leader over the years. May his memory live on.
Thursday, April 18, 2024
To Shirley and the family,
May it help to know at this time, that Gerald will be missed by everyone. He touched their hearts at one point of time, farming, politicking, or at one of the many events he attended.
Hold on to the memories.
Linda Teed and Family
Friday, April 19, 2024
Gerald always had such a big smile on his face when I went to visit my Grandma at the nursing home. Thinking of you all and sending My deepest condolences.
Friday, April 19, 2024
Dear Shirley
So sorry to learn of Gerry’s passing. We always appreciated his big smile and greeting when we visited our Mom at Meaford Long Term Care. Gerry was fortunate to have you as such a caring, supportive wife and clearly he was a loving, devoted husband and dad in return. It was always so nice to see the two of you around town over the years supporting so many local events. John always enjoyed sharing jokes with Gerry. He will be missed.
Condolences to you and your family.
Leita Peacock and Family
John Vickers
Friday, April 19, 2024
Shirley and family,
Sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all and praying for you.
Paul and Wendi Ramage and girls
Friday, April 19, 2024
Thinking of you all and sending our sincerest sympathies at this sad time.
Jill and Todd Robinson
Friday, April 19, 2024
Thinking of you & family at this very sad time!
Friday, April 19, 2024
To Gerald’s Family: We wish to send our most sincere condolences for your loss. We have many fond memories of Gerald and always had a high respect for him as a friend and fellow citizen. He dearly loved our Town of Meaford and proved it in many ways over many years. Treasure the many great memories of a life well lived. We all will miss him.
Bev. and Marion Genoe.
Saturday, April 20, 2024
To Shirley, the girls and all their families
Sending our sincere condolences on the passing of Gerald . He was truly a cornerstone of our community and a neighbour for many years . May he rest in peace and the memories you have are cherished.
Saturday, April 20, 2024
To Shirley and Family,
Our sincere sympathy to you & your family in Gerald’s passing. He was a great man to the community.
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Shirley and family. Thinking if you at this very sad time. Gerry will be well remembered in this town for all his dedication. Joan Scott and family
Sunday, April 21, 2024
So Sorry For Your Loss Shirley, for You and Your Family.
Gerry’s was a life well lived.
I know he will be greatly missed.
Saturday, April 20, 2024
To Shirley, Colleen, Sandra, Valerie and families
Janet and I send our sincere condolences on Gerald’s passing. Gerald contributed greatly to his community, his church and many other organizations while all the time being an exemplary family man. May your many wonderful memories be a blessing to you at this difficult time
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Dear Shirley and family,
May it help to know that friends are thinking of you. I always enjoyed my interactions with Gerald and admired his dedication and all he contributed to our community. He was a class act and his public service will impact our community in positive ways for many years in to the future.
Regrettably I will be away on vacation and unable to attend the service however please know you will be in my thoughts and prayers.
With Condolence,
Bill Walker
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Sincerest sympathy Shirley and family.
We have many fond memories of Gerald and Shirley. Two highlights… the two of you enjoying dancing to the Rusty Fiddlers at Riverside and Euchre fun.
You are all in our thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.
Hugs Tom & Helen Scott
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Joan, was so sorry to see that your brother has died. I remember reading about him frequently in the Sun Times.
My sympathy to you and all your family at this time, Liz Head.
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Kelsey: sending heartfelt sympathy upon hearing of the passing of your Grandfather. Wishing you the comfort of loving memories of one close to your heart.
Sunday, April 21, 2024
Sending our sincere condolences…Colleen, Dave and family
The Mahon Family.
Sunday, April 21, 2024
Dear Shirley and family,
We are deeply saddened by this news. Gerald was a remarkable man. You’ll know this to be true and have so many treasured memories of your lives together. You are in our prayers.
Peggy and Dean Raeburn-Bell
Sunday, April 21, 2024
Dear Shirley and Family
We are deeply saddened to hear of Gerald’s death. He was a great man who dedicated his Life to his Family, Church, neighbors and politics. RIP, fly high with the Angels.
Bud and Fran
Sunday, April 21, 2024
We enjoyed meeting you both when we were playing cards in the Anglican Church. We extend our condolences to all of your family.
Sincerely,
David and Kathy Sled
Monday, April 22, 2024
We remember Gerry by his energetic, determined and smiling face. His many accomplishments benefitted his community. His presence is missed.
Our condolences to you, Shirley and your family.
Monday, April 22, 2024
To Shirley and your family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Maureen Pyper
Thursday, April 25, 2024
Shirley and Family
My condolences and thought and prayers are with you.
Gerry lived a full and loving life with great memories
with family and friends
Cousin Dale Brown