With great sadness, we announce the passing of Rev. Dr. Gerard Bylaard on April 1, 2025. He passed away quickly at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, after a long struggle with Parkinson’s, with his family by his side.
Gerard was born in De Bilt in the Netherlands on September 21, 1937, and immigrated to Ontario at age 13 with his parents and sister. He graduated from Central College, where he met his future wife, Barbara Ver Meer. He later pursued his studies at Regis College in Toronto and Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan, where he earned his Doctorate.
Gerard served Presbyterian Churches in Huntsville, Barrie, Toronto, and Oshawa, and continued his ministry during his retirement. His deep love for his family and ministry left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
He is predeceased by his parents, Gerard and Marie Bylaard, his younger brother, and his sister, Hannie Capiteyn. He leaves behind his loving wife, Barbara Bylaard, two children, Dena Marie Duchesne (Eric) and G. John Bylaard (Olga), as well as five grandchildren, Noah, Luke, and Leigha Duchesne, and Benjamin and Charlie Bylaard. He is also survived by his sister, Adrianna Veenstra, sister-in-law, Martha Veldhuizen, and numerous very special nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held at the ARMSTRONG FUNERAL HOME, 124 King Street East, Oshawa, on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. A funeral service will follow in the funeral home chapel at 3:00 pm, officiated by Rev. Deon Slabbert. Interment will take place at Union Cemetery in Oshawa.
If you wish to make a donation in memory of Gerard, the family suggests the Parkinson’s Society or Gate 3:16 as possible recipients.
Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Armstrong Funeral Home.
