Gerald "Gerry" Boesten

Gerald 'Gerry' Boesten passed away on May 4, 2026, at St Joseph's Hospice in Sarnia, Ontario at the age of 94. He is survived by his beloved wife, Marlene (Schmidt), of 67 years. He is also survived by his dear grandchildren Vanessa (Dan) Barrette and Shawn Smolen and great-grandchildren Daphne and Karson Barrette. He is lovingly remembered by daughter-in-law Dale Boesten and son-in-law Jim Smolen. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Harry and Carol Schmidt, Ed and Rose Schmidt and Pat Schmidt. He was a special uncle to Frank (Dorie) Bartelen, Theresa (Gary) Franz, Herman Bartelen, Marion Boesten, Ann Cappadonna, Terry (Rich) Hoerman, Anna Cornell Bray, Paula (Brett) Gerlach, Leny (Peter) Van Hoorn - and many nieces and nephews from Marlene's (Schmidt's) side. He was predeceased by his children Jeff Boesten and Nancy Smolen; siblings Theresa Boesten, Anne (Leo) Bartelen, Grada (Bert) de Laat, Marie (Janus) Geerings, Margaret (Martin) Lodewyks, Henk (Vera) Boesten and nephews Matt Lodewyks and Herman de Laat, and nieces Toni Lester and Ans Verbant. The family would like to express their most sincere appreciation to Patti Smolen and Sam Jackson for their loving and dedicated care and support and for the kind and comforting care provided by the staff and volunteers at St. Joseph's Hospice. Gerry immigrated to Canada in 1955 from Eindhoven, Holland. He was a Tool & Die Maker/Machinist by trade and had been employed by several businesses in Sarnia including Mueller's, Prestolite and Sandrin Bros. He was an avid soccer player and played for many years for the Sarnia Imperials in the men's soccer league. Cremation has taken place. In keeping with Gerry's wishes, a graveside service will take place at Resurrection Cemetery in Sarnia on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. A luncheon is to follow at the Smith Funeral Home Family Centre. Sympathy may be expressed through donations to the St. Joseph's Hospice.