It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gerald “Gerry” William Bowler, age 62 years, unexpectedly in Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences on Friday, December 26, 2025.
Gerry was born on April 24, 1963 in Port Arthur and was a lifelong resident of Thunder Bay. He attended Pine Street, Francis Street and C.D. Howe Public Schools, and graduated from Hillcrest High School. Gerald enjoyed hockey and, as a teenager, his father coached his hockey teams when he played for Oliver Road Rec. Centre and then later, for Volunteer Pool Rec. Centre. Gerry was capable of shooting the puck from centre ice with such force that it would break the rink boards. He also learned to harness his strength by studying and attaining a black belt in the martial arts, which gave Gerry great satisfaction.
Gerald had a long career with the City of Thunder Bay, first with the Sanitation Department and later, with the Roads Department until an injury forced him to retire. Gerry met the love of his life, Crystal Woodbeck, and they spent over 35 years creating a wonderful life together, getting married on August 9, 2014.
Gerry loved being outdoors and nature as a whole. He enjoyed gardening and was especially passionate about his backyard garden which was dedicated to protecting Monarch Butterflies and giving them an environment in which they could thrive. He also enjoyed bird watching and camping. Gerry had a love for cats as well as Heavy Metal music, often jamming to it loud enough that the whole neighbourhood could hear.
Gerry possessed the willpower and determination to attain anything he set his mind to. He was a kind and gentle soul who protected the ones he loved. Gerry is surely loved and remembered by all who knew him, and he will always live on in the memories we shared.
Gerry will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Crystal; son Zachary (Gen) Bowler and grandchildren Sophie and Rayanne Bowler; step-daughter Angel Woodbeck and grandchildren Jordan and Stephanie Edwards; mother Eleanor and step-father Victor Healey; sister Linda (Wayne) Colepaugh and nieces Sara (Chris) McAllen and Amy Carlson. He is also survived by his step-mother Val Hammerberg; step-siblings Todd Smith, Jason (Lindsey) Smith, Rebecca Smith and Johnny (Kimberly) Bowler; mother-in-law and father-in-law Judy and Edward Woodbeck; brother-in-law Paul Woodbeck and special cousin, Karen Curle who was always there for him. Numerous other relatives and extended family also survive.
He was predeceased by his father, Dale “Bud” Bowler and aunt, Mary (Ken) Curle as well as other family members.
Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced once finalized. Should friends so desire, donations made in memory of Gerry to the Thunder Bay and District Humane Society would be greatly appreciated.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the WESTFORT CHAPEL, 420 West Gore Street.
Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com
