It is hard to separate the many messages into categories. The colleagues range from early years working in Vancouver and other western provinces, through to Ann Arbor and throughout the USA, and of course now here in Lunenburg NS
MESSAGE from KAIEN SHIMIZU, APRA partner – Nanaimo, BC – read to Gerry on Aug 14
Thanks for keeping us in the loop over the last month. It is really sad to see someone as strong and athletic as Gerry go downhill so quickly. Our plans to visit Lunenburg kept getting postponed due to Covid when we tried to visit PEI and NS.
I just wanted to tell Gerry he was the one who encouraged me to go to Michigan and then to start APRA in Vancouver. Our personalities worked well together in building a successful consulting firm. Over the 25 years we had our ups and downs but it was usually up and gave us the opportunity to travel across Canada, USA and the world. In fact Suzanne always said I spent more time with APRA then at home.
I don’t think another firm had the range of projects and unique experiences that we had. Both of our moves, yours to NS and ours to the island brought us new experiences over the last 20 years.
Tell Gerry how much he influenced our life since 1970 when we moved to Michigan. We regret not making the effort to spend more time with the both of you doing the last 20 years after we closed APRA.
Tell Gerry we will miss knowing he was still keeping busy enjoying his life in NS. Many of the classmates are gone including Joe Yamauchi. I have passed on the note to both John and Bill and asked John to let Wayne know.
We just got back from Calgary where we visited Jed, Amanda and the 2 grandkids (4 and 18 months). Had a very nice time getting to know the kids and even went to Edmonton.
Thanks again for your updates, Gerry was lucky to have you around for all these years. Take care and let us know if you ever come out west. Say goodbye to Gerry for us.
MESSAGES from SCOTT GORDON – former student & APRA Group colleague – Oct 18 2022
Scott wrote upon reading G’s obit in Vancouver newspaper
I first met Gerry in 1975 while a student in the UBC School of Architecture. He brought a perspective of understanding how space was used and how it could be transformed into a built form. He was a great prof.
In regard to the house on 12th, I remember with a couple of other students helping Gerry and his father pour the concrete foundations and basement slab during their renovations.
After graduating I was hired to work at APRA, lots of good memories of projects in Regina, Edmonton and Kamloops.
The last day spent with Gerry going to a Mariners game – the drive both ways was consumed with stories [mostly hilarious] about the Odyssey bike tour. Though we had not connected much in the years prior to his bike ride, the ease of conversation driving down, during the game and back was if we had connected every week.
He had the gift of making those around him comfortable.
He helped me become a better architect. I wish I had gone back to see him in NS.
I will so miss him.
To Judith
I am sorry for your loss.
In the early days of your courtship I remember his love for you and am sure it never waned.
He was a very special man and I remember him fondly. He was a good friend and not replaceable. I wish I had known of his illness earlier so I could have visited.
To Judith, Apr 21 2023
I just revisited Gerry’s website and linked into the bench idea.
Can you tell me if funding is still being sought and how much is still to be collected to make the bench a reality.
Note: Scott generously covered the amount remaining for the bench construction. It will be installed in the first week of May.
MESSAGE from ROBERT JIM – APRA Group colleague – Feb 4, 2023
Dear Judith and Family
I joined APRA in 1983-1984 after Douglas Shadbolt, Dean of the UBC School of Architecture, recommended me to the firm. I had completed a 4-year Science degree, and a 3-year B.Arch. degree in succession, so I was anxious to work and pay off my student debt. Gerry and Kaien Shimizu gave me my first chance in the “real world,” as Canada was coming out of a long, global recession. The opportunity that they gave me, really meant everything to me.
I was intrigued by Gerry, not only by his physical stature, but his high intelligence, quick wit, calm demeanour and meticulous problem solving. Gerry was the ultimate educator and practitioner, and as such he could always see both sides of the equation. There are not many in our profession that can successfully do both, especially to that high degree, and we must recall that PhDs in Architecture were quite rare at the time.
I will always remember his classic repose in the office, with Gerry slouched in his office chair after a hectic day, razor thin reading glasses perched on the top of his head. I often wondered if his chair was too small for him, but alas ergonomic assessments were not in vogue at that time!
Gerry and I would play squash at the Bentall Centre at mid-day, usually before the lunch rush hour, and I was often impressed with Gerry’s quickness and athleticism. He was very competitive, never giving up, especially on difficult shots. That was in Gerry’s DNA, to always make the extra effort, and that is one of the many attributes that made him so special.
He was extremely thoughtful as well. To this day, I still have my prized bottle of imported Port, a Christmas present from APRA. I am not sure if it is still viable after 40 years but will open it one day to salute my days at APRA.
After my stint at APRA, I sought out Gerry’s (and Kaien’s) valued opinion on whether I should go work as architect in Singapore. He highly encouraged this move, explaining that any opportunity to travel to new destinations or experience new things would be a great growth opportunity and benefit my personal and professional life. Indeed his prodding resulting in me for the most wonderful experience, with many life-long friendships made and large projects built.
As I recently retired, I have had a chance to reflect upon all those who have helped me build my career and my life, and definitely Gerry would be right up there. Thank you so much Gerry! What an incredible mentor and friend. You will be missed by anyone who had the privilege to meet you.
I take comfort that you were able to read my note to him. As you say, we will cherish all the wonderful memories of Gerry, and have comfort in knowing that we shall meet again, one fine glorious day.
With love and respect – Robert Jim
MESSAGE from MADELYN LEMAY – former Town Planner, Lunenburg NS
MESSAGE from BLAIN ARCHER – Vancouver BC – read to Gerry on Aug 14
Gerry/Judith
I just received news from Kaien about your situation and just wish you to know that even though we were not “close” friends, i have always wondered how life is treating you out there in Nova Scotia.
This news about you brings a heavy heart and fond memories of your kindness to me on a trip we had to Nova Scotia.
Kaien and I have met a few times and he mentioned a few great stories about you which showed how wonderful you were.
I will certainly raise a glass for you on Monday. And to you Judith, i pass on my best wishes to you. You are terrific also.
From experience, i can say that you will have many many fine memories which get stronger and clearer as each year passes. The love never disappears.
Gerry, may you have a ton of bike rides in your next life
Blain
MESSAGE from JOAN & JOHN CURRIE, Vancouver BC – read to Gerry on Aug 14
We are saddened by the news of Gerry’s imminent passing. Kaien and Suzanne have kept us updated on his condition as his illness progressed, and understand it has been a difficult time for you and your family.
We have fond memories of our visit with you both in 2009, and tours of Nova Scotia and PEI, and the lobster feeds.
Our sincerest condolences and our love to you both, Joan + John
MESSAGE from WAYNE & ANNELIES REEVES – Vancouver BC – read to Gerry on Aug 14
Wayne and I are saddened to hear that Gerry has not been well. We send you our love and courage through this very difficult time. We will always remember him fondly.
Much love from Wayne and Annelies
MESSAGE from DIMITRI PHILIPPIDES – Athens, Greece
Two days ago, unexpectedly as it always happens, we heard from Kaien Shimizu who sent us information about the passing away of Gerry. We had suspected as much when we did not get the standard Rolfsen card at Christmas time – he never failed, for so many years, to be always punctual: the first or one of the first cards we received, also accompanied by an exquisite watercolor picture of his own.
You justifiably called him “My Viking”, and one can also add so many other attributes of his. To me, right from the first time I met him in Ann Arbor, he was kind and considerate, surprising sensitive for a man of that … height. He remained a friend, always rushing to help or offer advice – beyond his official obligation to chaperon me on my first assignment as a teaching fellow.
And then, all those mythical trips of his, with a bicycle or on foot, when he frequently passed by Greece – so unbelievably athletic and youthful (in comparison, I always felt I was a dismally aging friend of his). And all those activities he was busy with! Just incredible.
I am happy that I met him in my life. He was innocent and brave.
Dimitri Philippides
MESSAGE from CHERYL WILLIAMS, Victoria, BC
I first met Gerry in the mid-1980s when I was Executive Director of the Architectural Institute of British Columbia. We worked together for many years starting when Gerry was elected to the AIBC Council in 1985.
These were interesting and changing times for the architectural profession. The Canada/US Free Trade Agreement was signed in 1988 and later that year expanded to include Mexico – architecture was the only profession recognized in the agreements. Gerry, as Chair of the Committee of Canadian Architectural Councils, signed the reciprocity agreement between Canada and the US regulatory bodies.
We enjoyed many years working to develop mutually accepted standards for architectural internships and computerized registration exams in accordance with the agreements. Over this period, we travelled extensively attending committee and national meetings in Canada and the USA. Whenever possible ski days were added in and many an evening was spent discussing architecture and travel over single malt whisky. I had both a ski buddy and architecture mentor and a lot of great memories. Judith often accompanied Gerry on these trips and we all enjoyed wonderful experiences as we travelled across Canada and the U.S.
Outside of work, Gerry, Judith and I, as well as my sister Janice, developed a friendship over a love of architecture, travel, good food, good wine and a great cocktail.
In 1996, we all travelled to Italy renting a villa in Tuscany for two weeks with other friends as we explored Florence, Pisa, and the hill towns of Tuscany. Days were spent traversing the countryside (even watching the famous Palio horse race in Siena) and evenings were spent over long dinners and much wine at the villa. Gerry’s watercolour (he never traveled without his sketch book) of the place we rented near Greve in Chianti still hangs in our home (see sketch in top right corner of photo Gerry’s and Adrienne’s art show during our trip).
In 2000, Gerry regaled so many of us with his around the world cycling adventures and misadventures during the millennium cycling trip. Again Janice and I benefited from his adventures by receiving watercolour prints from Lijiang, China.
After settling in Lunenburg, Janice and I spent time with Gerry and Judith in their new home in 2002 and met some of their neighbours. We visited again in 2015 and got to see the new apartment Gerry had designed and experienced more of Lunenburg hospitality. It was wonderful to see Gerry and Judith embrace their new lives in Lunenburg becoming an integral part of the community and contributing so much over the years.
My relationship with Gerry started through work but quickly eclipsed AIBC and became a friendship that spanned more than 35 years. He was an exceptional person full curiosity, fierce intelligence and love of life. He may not have suffered fools lightly but he had a great capacity for love of family and friends.
I am so sad that he is gone but happy to have been his friend.
MESSAGE from OWEN PAWSON, Victoria – Dec 2022
I am so sorry about Gerry and was distraught when I heard about his passing.
He was a mentor and the best teacher throughout my years at architecture school. Working with him eight years after graduation was a gift that I still remember fondly.
I think of Gerry often.
Owen
MESSAGE from SANDY MARSHALL, CHAIR, LWAI, read to Gerry Aug 14
I am writing for myself and on behalf of the LWAI to say thank you for all that you have done for Lunenburg.
Your rendering of the waterfront gave the initial visual focus to the LWAI effort & still forms the podium backdrop of our symposiums. Nurturing the membership list, the real base of our influence, cannot be forgotten.
Your creative support thru the years with Jennifer and the WDCL; the raising of the lighthouse from “being-taken-for-granted”, to being a harbour focal point needing tending – you have served Lunenburg well.
You have been my mentor these last few years since you “pushed” me into the Chair – thank you for your guidance. I’ll need to remember your council as we deal with the current government.
So long Friend, if this is what it is. I’ll toast you with hot Singapore noodles sometime soon.
Sandy and the LWAI
MESSAGE from RACHEL BAILEY, Lunenburg NS – Aug 2022
MESSAGE from RACHEL BAILEY, Lunenburg NS – January 2023
Hello & Belated Happy New Year Judith
2022 was a very difficult year and while I haven’t seen you lately, I wanted to let you know that I think of you and of Gerry often. I am grateful for the many contributions you both have made to your chosen hometown and this Christmas Greeting is a reminder of that.
I remember “meeting” you first, though it was only through email, when you so kindly offered (through Robin Scott, I believe) to help with the fundraising effort I was leading to redevelop the soccer field and track. Your talent filled a real void and your generous gift of it was truly appreciated. While it took more time to warm up 🙂 to Gerry, whose strong opinions I did not always readily share, I came to both respect and like him very much. I learned much from listening to him and am very sorry for “our” loss of him.
No one feels that loss greater than you, of course. I wish you peace and comfort and all the good that life has to offer as you navigate the year ahead.
Thanks so much for telling me about the memorial website you created. I had not seen it and just spent the last hour or more reading through it. What a wonderful tribute to Gerry and the extraordinary life he had. I am honoured to have my comments included and if you wish to add my message, please feel free to add it wherever you see fit.
Kindest regards,
Rachel
MESSAGE from LWAI director DAVID JONES & wife DEANNA, Lunenburg NS
Judith, our thoughts have been with you since we heard of Gerry’s initial health issues following the symposium in June. We are shocked and saddened by his sudden passing, a loss for you, his friends, and for the community that he loved and worked so hard to build. He contributed so much on so many fronts and his wisdom, passion and effort will shape Lunenburg for the better in decades to come.
It occurs to me that we shared many beliefs and causes but did not always agree – and on reflection I suspect that’s exactly what Gerry wanted.
Our thoughts are with you as you suffer this great loss. We join you celebrating Gerry’s life so well and productively lived.
MESSAGE from HEATHER TOWNDROW, LWAI director – read to Gerry on Aug 8 (he smiled)
Just thought you should know.
I like you and your slightly rude and cynical way of expressing what had been going through my mind. Nice to have someone who not only thinks similarly… but then says it out loud.
I wish you well … I wish you the best you can be.
Heather
MESSAGE from BEN & ROXIE SMITH, Lunenburg
Dear Judith
I would feel very privileged to write a few lines about Gerry to express my personal high regard for him as an architect and generally as a clever and personal individual.
My very first impression of Gerry came when he recognized that the Lighthouse marking the entrance to Lunenburg Harbour badly needed a face lift. I said to myself “Why did you notice that? ” After all it was plainly visible from a location that my future wife (Roxie) and I used to park in our courting days. At that time the road to that area was available for such activities!
Gerry made the repair and painting of Lunenburg’s Lighthouse a priority and got it done even if he had to do the work himself!
Gerry and Judith then became active in the ideas and implementation of the design of the Lunenburg Waterfront with special emphasis on the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic and the other Wharf facilities in the Town. Gerry was not the only person who was involved but in my opinion his input was both practical and productive. Lunenburg ended up with a Working Waterfront that suits both the Tourism and Fishing industries and is working towards a good Ship Repair Industry.
In other words I cannot say enough about my positive Engineering experiences when working with Gerry Rolfsen.
Sincerely
Ben Smith, P. Eng.
CARD from STAFF, TOWN OF LUNENBURG – Oct 2022
CARD from ANDREW RITCEY & VIRGINIA VEINOT – Riverport NS
MESSAGE from JENICE & JOHN BENTON – Lunenburg NS & Arizona USA – July 2022
MESSAGE from WENDY ZINK – Victoria BC – Jan 2023
Dear Judith
Oh my goodness – I somehow thought Gerry would live forever as he was a survivor. I am so sorry – please accept my and Jack’s sincere condolences.
The ones we love and who have died are always with us I’ve learned this past year
and it’s important to always smile when you think of them. I’m sure you’ve had
your fair share of tears and smiles these past months.
I admired and looked up to Gerry from the day I met him in 1984 while working on
the BC provincial election and thought I had won the lottery when I was
contacted about working for APRA. It was a dream job and Gerry was the BEST
boss I’ve ever had.
I did read the website from top to bottom and am so impressed with the content – it’s a loving tribute to a wonderful, well-respected gentleman who practiced the art of architecture, as well as the science, with sense and sensibility. It was an honour to have worked with him and to count him as my friend.
We so enjoyed our visit with you two in Lunenburg and I especially enjoyed my time visiting with you in Vancouver when I moved to Victoria. Your generosity was appreciated as it was in Lunenburg.
Please keep me in the loop about the bench’s progress. If you decide you want a west coast sojourn, please know you are most welcome to stay in our home with us.
As I write this I am smiling, thinking of Gerry.
Take care, Wendy