When it started to be known around Lunenburg that Gerry was at home from the Halifax hospital with a diagnosis – the emails, telephone calls, food drop-offs, flowers, and offers to help came fast and furious. The end came very soon but the cards and outpouring of love are still coming …
MESSAGE from SUE & TED KELLY, Lunenburg NS – read to Gerry Aug 2
Dear Gerry
This is a note of love and appreciation. Love from us in the hope you take strength and support from this sentiment to know we care. Appreciation for your friendship, your professional advice and companionship over the past 20 yearrs.
You have opened our eyes and broadened our horizons on so many levels … bike racing being #1, architecture, travel, drawing Christmas cards in particular, art appreciation, furniture styles, food, and so many others. Thanks for the tip on Taliesin West – we never would have gone there if you had not mentioned it.
We have always enjoyed your input and your stories on the topic at hand. Maybe we made fun of some of your thoughts and adventures: The Gerry Rolfsen Tour of Lunenburg; your spandex biking gear; your exasperation with the Ladies of Riverport; etc. etc. Recent highlights have been our trips to PEI, breakfast at the Savvy, and the “guy” lunches that brought four men together to “do lunch”.
We shall be here to support Judith always. She exudes loyalty, devotion and caring not only to you but to her friends and to her community. She is a marvel and will continue to be so … Judith is amazing.
Gerry, you are loved, respected and admired by many. Know that your friends are saddened by your struggle and feel helpless as you persevere.
With love, Sue & Ted
MESSAGE from PAMELA MADOFF, Victoria BC – read to Gerry Aug 11
My dear, Dr. Gerry
I have been thinking of you and Judith so much over the past months as I began to imagine that I would actually be able to make that oft postponed trip to visit with you in Lunenburg.
I always regretted not to have been able to join in the road trip with you two, and Peer and Gini, that took you on the road through the Maritimes to Quebec. Cannot believe that I missed the opportunity to join your pre-approved list of folks you were willing to go on a road trip with. One of the highest accolades that I have ever received and one of the achievements that I am most proud of.
As I imagined what the visit with you would be like, and what we would get up to, it was impossible not to reflect on the experiences that we had shared in the past.
Thinking back on the first time that we met. Nick and I came to Vancouver and stayed with you and Judith. Not only did I not know what to expect but, clearly, neither did you. Taking into consideration some of Nick’s then, more recent, romantic entanglements, I imagine that you might have felt somewhat guarded in terms of what I might be like. I remember what a lovely time we had. Staying on Beatty Street, close to my beloved Sun Tower and heading down to Gastown, for dinner at Al Forno. Another dinner at your favourite spot on Commercial Drive. The way that you rocked your incredible black raincoat put Keanu Reeves in ‘The Matrix’ to shame. Nobody can compete with a Viking with attitude! I felt a bit shy and that, combined with your charmingly taciturn attitude, made for very interesting exchanges. I think that we bonded over our common love of architecture and jazz and of Mr. Nick.
I was speaking to my friend Dan, in Vancouver, yesterday, and he was remembering, very fondly, the Christmas that found us all here at our house. I, of course, was remembering your Halloween visit when both you and Nick put on the Dzunukwa masks, after carving the pumpkins. A typical night on Battery Street.
Not to forget the visit to Glengarry, when we had tea with him on the patio and you never let on, in front of him, how difficult it was to see him in that diminished state.
Of course, the road trip that both you and Judith organized, to take Nick’s ashes up to the ranch is something that I think of often. So grateful and, sometimes, I find it hard to believe that you were able to pull it off. To have us all there, Nick’s favourite people, including his son and grandson was so extraordinary. Of course, one could never forget the never-ending drive home from Tofino, and Peer’s orchestrated smoke breaks and desire to occupy the front seat. Of course, I loved having the front seat so that I could stretch out whichever leg was pre or post-surgery. Also loved watching how you drove and the way that your hands gripped the steering wheel, very much like the race car driver emeritus. Could also not forget how you munted about the signs that were written in a First Nations’ language!
The eulogy that you delivered at Nick’s celebration was extraordinary. Funny and thoughtful and heartfelt. People still mention it. I honestly cannot find the words to tell you how grateful I was that you were willing to take that on and celebrate our beloved Mr. Nick.
On your last visit here I was so happy to be able to join you on the road trip up to Nanaimo. I loved the Nanaimo Boy touring us past the scenes of his past indiscretions. As you said ,at the time, far too many for us to visit all of them!
I am really going to miss sharing various bits about architecture with you. Always anticipating either a pithy return comment or some wonderful insight, based on your first-hand experience.
So I sit here writing this note, trying not to cry too much, listening to Jim Byrnes and wishing that I was a better writer but wanting you to know how much I valued and enjoyed our friendship and how much I will miss you. Trying to be a bit amusing but also feeling so deeply the gravity of the situation. Taking some comfort in that you are able to be the architect of your own demise, on your own terms.
I know that there will still be some interesting adventures ahead of you. Today is the 10th anniversary of Nick’s passing and I have to think that he is sitting in the wings, smoking a cigar and sipping a scotch in his virtual saloon, waiting for a favourite table mate.
In our lives we would think ourselves lucky to have a handful of extraordinary friends. I do have a handful and you are definitely at the top of the list, and not just because of your enviable height!
So glad that I can truly love something from Nanaimo, and not just Nanaimo bars. I got to know the best Nanaimo Boy. Much love to the unforgettable Dr. Rolfsen.
Pam
MESSAGE from GERRY HALLOWELL – Next Door Neighbour Lunenburg NS
Remembering Gerry Rolfsen
On the afternoon of November 29, 1999, a tall, handsome stranger appeared on our front lawn at 229 Cumberland Street in Lunenburg. He announced that he had bought the house next door. More astonishing, he told us that he would not be living there for awhile since he was about to embark on a year-long bike ride around the world! I had never heard of anyone doing that before. He assured us that the house would not be empty for long because his beautiful wife, Judith, would be arriving shortly from Vancouver. He clearly adored her, and was certain that we would as well.
Thus began a long friendship with Gerry Rolfsen, lasting close to a quarter of a century. Gerry and Judith were the best possible neighbours. Before they moved to their apartment over Kinley’s, Mike and I saw a lot of them. As well as social occasions, I remember especially the chats between their front porch and ours. Through them we also met Judith’s sister Sue and her husband Steve.
Gerry inspired me to ride my bike more often, though I could never be called a cyclist. Perhaps more importantly, he introduced me to the mysteries of the Tour de France and helped me understand what was going on.
Gerry was always kind and friendly, but there was a side to him that amused us. To our friends who didn’t know him well he could appear to be austere, maybe a bit aloof, characteristics perhaps natural enough in someone descended from vikings. With fondness, we nicknamed him our “Scandinavian prince of darkness.” He would have fit well into some of the Norse mysteries that I like to read.
Among many good memories I have of Gerry are the several times we together guarded the main door at the Lunenburg Folk Art Festival as “security” (bouncers?). It was good to have him at my side as we tried to control the hordes rushing in to find their favourite folk artists.
But mainly I will always remember Gerry and Judith as wonderful neighbours and friends. Because of the similarities of our first names, Gerry became BG (Big Ger) and I was GND (Gerry Next Door). It’s rare to meet such fine people during one’s lifetime.
MESSAGE from MARY JEAN MORAWETZ – Spring Island USA & Lunenburg – read Aug 14
Dear Judith and Gerry
I realized yesterday sitting with you two that I seem unable to express my feelings. Therefore, I thought something in writing might help.
I just looked up when we first met, Gerry, it was in 2012 when we had a conversation concerning designing our new master bedroom. Barb Eisenhauer gave your name to us which was our lucky day. Our friendship proceeded from there. Gerry, I had noticed you at the Folk Art Festival, but did not know your name. I mean who would not notice this tall, stern man standing in the entry way checking tickets.
During these next ten years, you both have become such very dear friends. I cannot begin to list all the wonderful times we have been in your home eating amazing dinners which ended with Gerry’s delicious pie. Then there was your Spring Island trip which holds many special memories for us. I loved it when you could spot Gerry in any crowd … we could not misplace you ever. Then all those projects Judith helped me accomplish on her computer. Our 50th Anniversary celebration would of been a shadow of itself if Judith had not produced so many wonderful things to add to the festivities.
Now, Gerry I think the customs folks in Halifax unbeknownst to them gave me a very special gift the day we got to sit on the tail gate of the truck and be together while we waiting for Richard and Chuck to be released from the plane … special moments.
Gerry I will make you a special promise, you will always be with me in my memory making me smile, and we promise to keep care of Judith your special love.
Always, Mary Jean
MESSAGE & CARD from JANET & GEORGE PALMER, Lunenburg NS
As soon as Janet heard that G was ailing, packages of tempting treats began appearing at our door. Janet’s famous scones, cookies, cakes, candies, and more – never stopped coming …
MESSAGE from SANDY and GERMAINE MARSHALL, Lunenburg NS
MESSAGE from TRUDIE BAZEMORE, Greenville NC – Sep 7
MESSAGE from CIEL DUKE read to Gerry on Aug 11 and he smiled & remembered the painting
Farewell, dear man
Gerry, I have always admired your great talents, your great intellect, and your humility. You will be greatly missed by all the many who have been privileged to know you and work with you – as well as an entire town that has been fortunate to have sheltered you.
♥️ Fare thee well
MESSAGE FROM RODNEY CLARK – Summerside PEI – read to Gerry on Aug 12
The Road Race
The fact that I have met so many and truly enjoyed so few
Brings me to you two
I enjoy your take and think of you as a character to build off of
May the spirits ride with you and the gods accept you
friend Rodney
MESSAGE from JODI ASBELL-CLARKE & DAVID CLARKE, Halifax – Aug 2022
MESSAGE & CARD from PAUL & MONIQUE NAESSENS – Yellowstones of Belgium
MESSAGE from ARNOLD & LIEVE NAESSENS, Yellowstones of Belgium – Aug 15
Freddy kept us well informed about Gerry’s medical state and evolution … and now his farewell. Gerry was the last of the Yellowstones to join us, now after Veronique, he’s the second to leave us.
While we remain in sadness, we remember and cherish all the fine moments we shared together. From our fantastic bike trip in the Rockies in 1999 to the unforgettable bike tour in Nova Scotia in 2006 – still thankful for my stay in your house during that week – and all the occasions we enjoyed with him here and elsewhere. In particular, we ‘ll miss Gerry, as a welcome guest, during the race classics on Flanders hills and cobble stones.
We loved and honour Gerry as a kind, generous, modest and gifted person. Ans so he will be remembered.
I hope this may help to comfort you and give you strength in these painful days.
Kindly, Arnold & Lieve
MESSAGE from AGNES & ROEL NIEUWDORP – Yellowstones of Belgium
read to Gerry on Aug 14
With a burning candle before us in your honour, dear Gerry, we are very sad that you leave us – especially we are thinking how Judith must feel and your friends, as Fred.
It is very hard for Roel and me to hear that.
Most important now is that we always experienced you as a GOOD person – the best thing men can say about somebody. We know all your talents and we were always looking forward to receive your original Christmas cards.
We have still good memories of our trip with Fred and the Yellowstones in the Rocky Mountains.
Also UNFORGETTABLE is our stay in Lunenburg – how you and Judith, and her relatives and friends made our holiday perfect. The lobsters, bringing food to the beach, the sailing boat. I still have the green bags of Lunenburg, Home of the Tall Ships and the coins you gave us as a souvenir. Very interesting was Cape Breton and the “old French-speaking” people and the home of Alexander Graham Bell: sports, nature, culture.
Thank you so much, dear Gerry, for caring!
Always when we visit Vancouver we wander thinking of you as the urban architect – and your friend Suzanne, spoiled us there. She came even with us to Vancouver Island! We appreciated that very much.
Your visit to our house with Judith – I remember we drank a very good, old Bordeaux wine, discussing the organisation with Fred you did in Flagey – what a success!!
Later we had the opportunity to have you for several days here as our guest: easy, always happy, correct and friendly.
We are very grateful to Fred who brought the Yellowstones together and doing the effort keeping contact.
Dear Gerry ,we wish you a good sailing. Dear Judith, let’s drink a good Bordeaux wine to celebrate his marvellous life. We love you all.
Agnes and Roel
Brusselsesteenweg 150
B- 3020 Herent
MESSAGE from CORNELIA & IVO CARMEN – Yellowstones of Belgium – Aug 14
Dearest Gerry
You will always be the sky-high cedar tree from Vancouver with Judith your beloved wife.
Grateful to have shared your company on our extraordinary bike-tour in the Rocky Mountains. You will remain in our hearts forever. So long dearest Yellowstone-friend,
Cornelia & Ivo
MESSAGE from JOHAN MEES, Yellowstones of Belgium – Aug 17
I was heartbroken by this news about Gerry.
Those we love don’t go away,
they walk beside us every day,
unseen, unheard, but always near,
still loved still missed and very dear.
A Yellowstone friend, Johan
MESSAGE from SALLY MIDDLEBROOKS, Hyattsville & Lunenburg – read to Gerry Aug 14
I hope you know how unique you are and what a treasure for your family, friends, this community and all the individuals you have touched, worked for, cycled with around the world.
I feel very privileged to be welcomed by you and Judith. A moment that stands out is your showing Wenda and me (I think it was last summer) some of your drawings made on your travels. As I remember the afternoon, Wenda and I were talking about our sketching efforts and you found and showed us some of yours. While yours were far ahead of our efforts, we saw the value of capturing a place, a moment.
Another time that stands out is listening to you talk about the Tour de France. Your knowledge and enthusiasm were contagious! I may have understood little about strategy or speed trials despite your efforts, but I did catch the excitement and it was possible to imagine myself by the side of a winding road in a lovely place, cheering the cyclists as they rode by!
Thank you, Gerry,
Sally
MESSAGE from WENDA MACDONALD, Lunenburg & Hyattsville USA – read to Gerry Aug 2
Dear Gerry and Judith
I’m glad to hear you are home Gerry. And very much saddened to hear about your illness. I’ve been thinking about you, and the special place you both have in my heart. Three things immediately come to mind.
The first dinner I had with MJ and R and their close friends, as this unknown woman coming into Sally’s life and family. Mary Jean had the kind sense to seat me next to you, Gerry, and you were so kind, and funny, and reassuring, despite the fact that I could sense the fellow dry cynic within. A high plus in my reckoning. And we feasted on your delicious pie, Judith, and listened to theories about the movements of the moon. I loved it, and knew you were both the best sorts.
Then of all things, you entertained, or graciously put up with, Sally’s and my ventures into purchasing some place to set up house! It was such fun looking at possibilities with you last year, taking suggestions, visiting sites with both of you, and imagining what could be. You sparked a dream. And probably saved us from ourselves more than once!
Seeing your sketches, your genius Gerry, was a very special treat for me. Thank you for opening up that book, and sharing your talent, and thank you to both of you for opening your home to us.
Please know that you both will always be part of our home, and you are, and always will, be right here in our hearts. Ready and willing for any ask.
Love, Wenda
MESSAGE from FRANS AEYELTS & PAULETTE CREWE, Lunenburg NS – Aug 15
Today is very, very tough for all of you, notwithstanding the fact that everything was planned, the unmitigated finality is hard to take in. We are glad for you that Steve and Sue were able to be here in time to be there for Gerry and support you in every way. It’s very commendable that he donated his body to science. We look back to the numerous times we spent together, may you treasure them.
Have faith that over time you will find peace.
Best wishes, Frans and Paulette.
MESSAGE from ELLEN WATHEN and PETER GOFORTH, Lunenburg NS – Aug 15
Peter and I heard about Gerry and want to send you all our wishes for strength and love and hope to get you through the days ahead.
Through the grapevine I heard that Gerry chose to leave today and that you had his sons and Sue and Steve and with you. I imagine it was a peaceful and loving departure for him surrounded by his loved ones.
The last Covid years have been strange ones such that we have not seen people as we would have in the past. That said, whenever I saw Gerry we always had interesting conversations and he always made me smile or laugh. I suspect that was the effect he had on most people. He will be missed!!
Ellen
MESSAGE from CHRISSY STUBBS, Lunenburg, NS – Aug 16
Lorne and Janet kindly sent on the email about the sad news that Gerry died on Monday. Your wonderful Viking has left this earth but in his final wishes he has gifted himself for research and learning.
I feel honoured to have many fond memories of get togethers and fun times spent with you both since moving here 20 + years ago.. I thank you for welcoming me into the fold from the beginning at one of the BC parties at Sue and Steve’s, dancing at the community centre and to your wonderful New Year gatherings and impromptu coffee and treats. Plus a lovely moment at my 60th disco party at my house where we all listened to endless disco songs of my choosing but you all kindly indulged me in my music choice.
During the school year my drive to work at Pentz takes me sometimes over on the Lahave Ferry and each time I see a cyclist especially a tall leggy one think .. there goes Gerry. The route to Risser’s from here I feel it is ingrained with his tyre tracks. I will also miss seeing him standing by your side at the Remembrance Day ceremonies in Lunenburg.
Judith my heart goes out to you. Please take care and thank you so much for letting me visit Gerry in his last days. It truly was special. His final “So long” words to Janet, Lorne and I will always be held fondly in my heart.
I am so glad Sue and Steve are close by now for you and were there for Gerry in his final moment.
With deepest sympathy and love, Chrissy
MESSAGE from ALAN SCOTT, Lunenburg NS – Aug 17
Some of us within the Cycling Friends of Lunenburg knew Gerry well and many had the pleasure of sharing rides with him over the years. Gerry was an avid cyclist who, during a year-long epic road cycling adventure, crossed 5 continents.
He was always up for a ride and as Ian points out, his wry smile during our coffee conversations told all that he had an opinion on the topic, and you were about to hear it. I’m sharing a few photographs that i found this morning.
We will miss you Gerry.
Alan
MESSAGE from LORNE & JANET JOHANSON, Lunenburg NS – Aug 19
We have had the honour of knowing Gerry and Judith for all 15 years we have called Lunenburg home. We became a little closer when Judith’s sister Sue and husband Steve returned to the West Coast for several years. As we are all essentially bi-coastal, however, we managed to retain our friendships thorough that rapidly passing time.
We became better acquainted with Gerry when he designed the renovation and repurposing of our carriage house at Alicion B&B in 2012. Janet, who was in charge on our behalf could occasionally be seen standing on her toes with Gerry stooping over her in a stance that one might conclude framed some kind of argument. They always sorted stuff out with a laugh and on the of best terms. That collaboration produced a magnificent little home that was not just practical use of space but also contained several very appealing architectural elements.
We have all dined and toasted life together many times with no forbidden topics and few stones left unturned. Among the things we admired most about Gerry was that he was always open for any type of discussion or debate while never loosing his keen sense of humour or acknowledging someone else’s perspective. He would often bring a fresh point of view that came from a healthy sense of curiosity and an analytical mind. He maintained this capacity until the end. Gerry’s smile was contagious, and one could not help but celebrate his sense of adventure, his loyal friendship and forthright manner in all things big and small. We hope that all who have such fond memories will be comforted for a long time to come.
with love, Lorne and Janet Johanson
MESSAGE from PAMELA SEGGER, Lunenburg NS – Aug 20
I just learned of Gerry’s passing.
My heart goes out to you … I am sending my sincerest condolences, love, and a gentle embrace. I was a fan of Gerry’s from the moment I met him. I thought him larger than life — a very special and unique individual. Every time I encountered Gerry I laughed, or left with a smile (his was incredibly infectious!), or he got me thinking about something in a way I never would have otherwise. He had such warmth and a way of genuinely connecting — an attentiveness that is rare. I always knew I was ‘in’ for some small or big delight or insight when our paths crossed.
A towering presence and yet such a gentle giant he was — a big man in size, personality, mind, heart… Surely he will be missed by so many, and warmly regarded by anyone who had the honour and pleasure of knowing him.
I hope, in time, that the good memories and comfort of family and friends will bring you comfort and console you.
MESSAGE & CARD from LOUISA FIANDER, Victoria, BC – Aug 20
Morning here and I’m thinking of you again … you and Gerry.
I’m thinking of how you lived life large! And I know you will continue to do so eventually. I hope you have people around you every day and that they help you but also give you all the ‘alone’ time you need.
A Walt Whitman poem: – Walter “Walt” Whitman died at 72 on March 26th, 1892. Four days after his death, he was buried in his tomb at Harleigh Cemetery in Camden, New Jersey.
I bequeath myself to the dirt, to grow from the grass I love;
If you want me again, look for me under your boot soles.
You will hardly know who I am, or what I mean;
But I shall be good health to you, nonetheless,
And filter and fiber your blood.
Failing to fetch me at first, keep encouraged;
Missing me one place, search another;
I stop somewhere, waiting for you.
MESSAGE-CARD from VICKI & MIKE McNAY, Surrey BC
CARD from ROTARY CLUB of LUNENBURG
MESSAGE from DOUG & SANDRA FARENHOLTZ, Abbotsford, BC
CARD from WISEGUYS of KNOT PUB, Lunenburg NS
who meet Friday for lunch at Knot Pub, Lunenburg
CARD-MESSAGE from HIROKO KING – Vancouver BC
