1937 ~ 2014
On April 21, 2014 Gerda passed away peacefully at the age of 76 with her family by her side. It is with heavy hearts that we had to say goodbye to mom.
She will be profoundly missed by her 8 children; Judy (Guy), Lita (George), Patsy (Lorne), Ronnie, Nicky (Chrissy), William, Wanda and Sandra, her 15 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, sister Nelly ( Harry), brothers; Gerry (Gidgi), Ted (Evy) and William (Irma), several nieces and nephews, extended family and friends. Mom will be greatly missed by her loving partner and best friend Don.
Mom was predeceased by her parents William and Gerarda, sisters Jacquie, Cathy, Wilma, Baby Jacqueline, and her late husband Hank.
Mom lived life to the fullest and loved being around family and friends. She enjoyed knitting, gardening, picking berries, canning and cooking.
The family would like to express their gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Bruneau, Dr. Papetti and the entire staff at the Pinawa Hospital.
As per mom’s wishes, a private family gathering has been held.
From all of us who thought the world of you,
your beautiful memories will be cherished forever.
God Bless you Mom, you will be missed.
Offer Condolence for the family of Gerda Swystun (Bonekamp) (nee Van Niekerk)
Print This Obituary & Condolences
Loredana Bussoli
I am so sad to hear the news that my dear, sweet Aunty Gerda passed. There wasn’t a nicer lady than her – always welcoming me with a big hug and smooch. My childhood memories are filled with great times spent with her and her family – berry picking together, a hot steamy kitchen while her and my mom jarred cases of peaches and beans, sitting at the kitchen table over coffee, pic-a-pop and laughs. A pot of the best homemade soup was always on the stove – Maggie always on the table. She always had an open door and you never left empty handed. She was generous and warm hearted and I loved her. My deepest sympathies to Don and all my cousins, my heart goes out to you.
Love, Loredana, Paolo and Nico Bussoli
Janice and Ron Hoffman
We consider ourselves very fortunate that we were able to share our lives and our friendship with Gerda as well as all her children. Our sincere condolences to the Bonekamp and Grabowski families. Rest easy dear friend.
Love, Jan and Ron
bob phillips
My condolences to the family. Gerta was another ‘mom’ to me when we were neighbors on Edward street. I will miss her.
Rob and Barb Parise
We are very sad to hear of auntie Gerda’s passing.The world has lost another good and beautiful person. Growing up she was like a second mom to me.I cherish all my childhood memories of her as she was always their for me. To all my family I am thinking of all of you.
Kim Bruneau
My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Gerda. She was an incredibly kind and caring woman. I will miss her. R.I.P. gerda.
linda shea
Sending my heartfelt condolences to all the family of Gerda.. i remember her as being the sweetest..kindest ..beautiful person ..and a dear friend to my mom Mrs, Phillips..she will surely be missed by all.
Mae Bayly
I am so sorry to hear of Gerda’s passing.My most heartfelt condolences to her beautiful family. I know Gerda was very proud of each and every one.
I have fun memories of Gerda and her young family many years ago. May happy memories help at this sad time in their life.
Freda Van Niekerk
So sorry to hear of another one of my dear sisters-in-law passing. Gerda was always fun to be around. She always had a pot of coffee on the stove and something good to go with it. She was so proud of all of you children and I know you will all miss her very much. My deepest condolences to you all. Love Auntie Freda
W. pawluk
I remember meeting Gerda when she visited us with her husband(my cousin) Richard.
I am sad that he is not mentioned even once in her obituary,
But that’s life.