TOWNSEND, Gerald William

Gerald Townsend of Arthur, surrounded by the love of his family, passed away peacefully at home on the farm in Mapleton, in his 78th year. He is survived by the love of his life for 52 years Mary (Sills) Townsend. Dedicated and loving father to Ray (Tammie), Michael (Derek), Daphne (John) Haramule and Daniel (Holly). Predeceased by infant son Jamie (1976), parents Elmer and Dorothy Townsend, special nephews Gary and Wayne Haves and Mary’s parents Frank and Dinah Sills. Gerald adored his grandchildren – Jade, Taylen, Johnny, Joseph, Dominik, Ryan, Noah, Marla, Quinn and Claire. Every minute spent with them was special to him and he loved them dearly. Gerald treasured his siblings – Elizabeth (Robert, 2025) Haves, Alex (Eileen) Townsend, Erma (Ed, 2014) Watson, George (Ruth) Townsend. And was equally loved by Mary’s siblings and their families – Anne (Jim, 2019) Sills, Anne (John) Mason, Jane (Len) Muegge, Margaret (Phil) Beard, and Joan (Neil) Johnston. Gerald’s community was close to his heart. He served on many committees and volunteered selflessly. He was a longtime member and leader of the Arthur Optimist Club, the Arthur Agricultural Society, 4-H Ontario, Arthur Minor Lacrosse, Arthur Minor Hockey and Elora Mohawks Lacrosse to name a few. Gerald forged countless meaningful friendships during his working career. He believed that the relationships were as important as the work. His knowledge and passion for agriculture led him to a mixed farm operation which included shipping cream, producing maple syrup, raising beef, poultry, swine, rabbits and keeping horses. With his Belgian horses, he enjoyed giving sleigh rides and wagon rides to his profoundly deep group of friends. His commitment to his friends – young and old – was helpful and genuine. With Gerald, a conversation was never insignificant. He was always interested, engaged, thoughtful, witty and sometimes funny. He would want all of his friends and family to know how much he has appreciated their thoughts, words, fresh raisin pies or butter tarts, and kind actions over the many years that he was able to live and spend time with you. The family will receive friends at the Arthur Community Centre on Friday October 9th, from 1:00pm to 4:00pm and 6:00pm to 8:00pm. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, Arthur on Saturday October 10th , at 11:00am, followed by private family interment at St. John Catholic Cemetery. There will be a reception at the Parish Centre following the Funeral Mass. As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Arthur Optimist Club, St. John Catholic Cemetery or the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family. Arrangements entrusted to the Crawford Funeral Chapel, Arthur.