Murtagh, John Gerald
John Gerald “Gerry” Murtagh
May 3rd, 1932 – August 7th, 2021
It is with great sadness that the family of John Gerald “Gerry” Murtagh of Moose Jaw, SK announces his peaceful passing on Saturday, August 7th, 2021 at the age of 89 years. He was predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Annie (Eriser) Murtagh; sister, Priscilla; brother-in-law, Luis Mogentale; sister, Sister Anne; brother, Richard Lewison; step-daughter, Kim Getson; and nephew, John Mogentale. Gerald is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Beverley; son, Kevin (Chris); daughters, Kim (Gord) Watson and Jo-Ann McKenna (Ron Roy); step-children, Kathleen (Brad) Demkey and Cal (Perri) Thomas; son-in-law, Brian Getson (Ann Nickloet); his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother, Pat (Shirley); as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Gerald was born in Bruno, Saskatchewan. His elementary and high school education was acquired in many Saskatchewan towns. In 1950-51 Gerry attended the Moose Jaw Normal School (Teacher’s College). He earned his B of Ed (1955) and BA (1963) degrees from the University of Saskatchewan. Gerry’s love of teaching took him too many communities in Saskatchewan over a 35 year span. In 1988 he retired after 23 years teaching Physics and Math at Vanier Collegiate. Gerry had many passions, one being dancing; this is where he met his wife Bev. The two spent endless hours planning their wonder lust for travel, taking them to destinations including Australia, Cuba, Europe, Costa Rica, the UK, Mexico, El Salvador, every state in the US and every province in Canada. Casino trips and Good Sam camping trips were some of the highlights of their travels.
Gerry’s need to fill the cold cellar made him an avid gardener. The fruits of his labour (and Bev’s) were delicious meals, accompanied by wine he had made. He loved to play games and cards right to his last day, where he beat Bev fair and square in their daily card games.
Gerry was fortunate to remain in his home with his wife Bev up until six weeks ago when he was moved to long-term care due to health issues. We are comforted to know he is now resting in peace. The family would like to thank the staff of Extendicare and Home Care for their exceptional compassion and kindness in their attention to the care of Gerry and looking out for Bev.
The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, August 14th, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. in St. Joseph’s Church, 1064 3rd Ave NW, Moose Jaw, SK. Father George Thattuparampil will be the presiding celebrant and interment will take place at Moose Jaw Indoor Columbarium. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Andrew Pratt Funeral Director 306-693-4550
Bev, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You have many years of blessings and I pray they will comfort you at this time. May you feel God’s loving arms enfold you in the days ahead.
My friend Gerry can now Rest In Peace after a long and productive life. I always treasured our chats and loved to hear him laugh when I’d call to tell him a joke, good or otherwise. Jack and I send our love and condolences to our dear Bev and all those who loved him. It really touched our hearts to see the tender care she gave him both at home and once he was in hospital and Extendicare.
Condolences to the family on your loss. Mr. Murtagh was an excellent teacher and I was fortunate to have him teach me math and physics while attending Vanier. God Bless.
I’m so sorry for your loss. Your Dad was one of my teachers at Vanier in mid 60’s. My condolences, thoughts & prayers
Pat Kelly Radchuk
Thoughts and paryers for your family and you Bev at this time of sorrow. Remember the good times and he will always be with you.
Sincere condolences to you and your family Bev. Gerry was such a sweet man and loved you so. May he Rest In Peace.
Glennys Burns and family
Bev and family so sorry for your loss, thinking of you
Our sincere sympathy Beverley and family. Gerry was a kind, passionate person, I worked with him at Vanier for a number of years and had nice chats with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. God bless
Bev, you’re in my thoughts and prayers. May you experience peace in the midst of this storm in your life. Dave Foley
Our deepest condolences Bev & family. Remember the good times. Our thoughts & prayers are with you.
Our deepest condolences, Bev, Kevin, Pat, and family/families. May Gerald rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon him.
May you find some comfort and solace knowing that we are thinking about and praying for you today
We were neighbors on King Cres and at Vanier Collegiate where our classrooms were adjacent for many years. I am sorry for your loss.