Gerald Boesten

Gerald Boesten passed away peacefully, surrounded by loving family on May 4, 2026, at St Joseph Hospice, at the age of 94. He is survived by his wife Marlene of 67 years, and is treasured by his grandchildren Vanessa Barrette and her husband Dan, and Shawn Smolen. He was a beloved great-grandfather of Daphne and Karson Barrette. Gerald is also remembered by his daughter-in-law Dale Boesten and son-in-law Jim Smolen. He was a brother-in-law to Harry, Carol Scmidt, Ed and Rose Scmidt, and Pat Scmidt, and a special uncle to Frank and Dorrie Bartelen, Gary and Theresa Franz, and Herman and their families. He was loved by many nieces and nephews all over the world. Gerald was predeceased by his children Jeff Boesten and Nancy Smolen, and six of his siblings, including Grada and Bert Delaat, Marie and Janus, Margaret and Martin Ladawicz, Anne Bartelen, who died in 1999, and Leo Bartelen, as well as his younger sister Theresa Boesten, who died in 2023, and Vera Boesten. The family would like to give a special thanks to Sam and Patti for their support, and to Hospice and their staff. Gerald migrated to Canada in 1955 from Holland, and worked as a Tool and Die Machinist at several places in Sarnia, including Prestolite, Mueller, and Sandrin Bros. He was an avid soccer player and played for many years in the Sarnia Men's Soccer. Cremation has taken place, and a graveside service will be held at Resurrection Cemetery on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. Sympathy may be expressed through donations, and arrangements have been entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.