Gerald Keith Hesse, age 86, passed away peacefully at Stratford General Hospital on Tuesday, February 19, 2013 after a long battle with C.O.P.D. He was born on March 22, 1926 in Stratford to Elmer and Catherine Hesse. His beloved wife for over 50 years, Ruth Margaret (Bradley), passed away in November 1997. Dear father of Lynne Hesse of Bayfield, Marcia Hesse (Rob Hughes) of London and Geoffrey Hesse of Toronto. Beloved Uncle of Brian Hayter (Georgette Leyser) of Woodstock and Kathryn Currie (Don) of Stratford. Gerry lived all of his life in Stratford, attending Avon P.S. and Stratford Collegiate. Following high school, Gerry was employed at Kist Canada Limited and worked as a chemist in the production lab for 35 years. Gerry was a goaltender for both Stratford and Goderich hockey teams. His greatest sporting memory was of being a member of the Stratford Indians 1952 Allan Cup Finalist team. Gerry was an active member of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church and was both a Sunday School teacher and Member of Session. Gerry was a long-time member and past-president of the Stratford Kiwanis Club and was recently recognized for 45 years of service. Gerry will be remembered as an easy going, kind man and a true gentleman who was always genuinely interested in the lives of his family and friends. He will be fondly remembered by many and sadly missed by all. Family and friends will be received at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 25 St. Andrew St., Stratford, on Friday, February 22, 2013 from 11:00 a.m. until 12 noon. The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation. Rev. Dr. Hugh Jones, officiating. Interment in Avondale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church or Stratford General Hospital through the James A Rutherford Funeral Home 156 Albert Street, Stratford, Ontario N5A 3K4 or online at www.jarfh.com.