The family announces with great sorrow the passing of Gérard Daniel Parent at Sunnybrook Hospital on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at the age of 71 years.
Beloved son of the late Roméo and Blanche (Phillips) Parent. Dearest brother of Denise Parent (Jean), Roger Parent (Laura, predeceased), Gisele Forget (Raymond), Jean-Guy Parent (Linda), George Parent (Linda), Claire Palmer, and Denis Parent (Suzette). He was predeceased by his brother Jacques Parent (Lucie) and his sister Anne Hill (Ross). Gérard is also survived by many nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends from Toronto, Iroquois Falls, and Sudbury. He also leaves behind his precious cat Dee Jay, who brought him joy, friendship, and love.
Gérard will be remembered for the many connections he made during his long career at Amway, the Ministry of Health, and at Centres d’Accueil Héritage de Toronto, where he served as Executive Director.
A man of great faith, dedication, and generosity, Gérard earned his Bachelor of Musical Arts from Western University in London. An accomplished musician, he shared his talents on the piano and organ at church celebrations, family gatherings, and in numerous concerts with his friend Lorraine St-Onge.
Gérard also volunteered on the boards of several organizations, committees, and charities in the Toronto area. He had a big heart and touched the lives of everyone who knew him.
The family extends their gratitude to the medical team at Sunnybrook Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion for Gérard.
Visitation will take place at Paroisse du Sacré-Coeur, 381 Sherbourne Street, Toronto, on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at 1 PM, followed by a church service at 2 PM.
A funeral will also occur on January 11, 2025, at 11 AM at Paroisse St. Jacques, 46 Côté Blvd, Hanmer, with a burial in the spring in Iroquois Falls, ON.
In memory of Gérard, please consider making a donation to Les Centres d’Accueil Héritage de Toronto, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada, or any other charity of your choice.
« Music and love are the wings of the soul” – Hector Berlioz
