Obituary of Gerald (Gerry) Batten

It is with profound sadness the family of Gerald (Gerry) Batten announces his passing on October 4, 2022, just 27 days after the passing of his wife of 54 years. Gerry passed peacefully with his daughter by his side, holding his hand till he was reunited with his love; his broken heart was whole again. Gerry leaves to mourn his daughter Tracey, son-in-law Pat Ethier, Grandsons Jeff Hefferan and Josh Hefferan, great-granddaughter Emily Hefferan, sister Deborah Boulger, Brothers Kevin Batten and Trevor Batten. Father of his grandsons, Derrick Hefferan (Juanitta), mother of his great-granddaughter Kristin Pearce, Life long friend Austin Howard and many friends that became family. Gerry was born in Newfoundland in 1946, he met and married the love of his life in 1968, and they had their only child later that year. In 1979 he moved with his family to Fort McMurray, where they would live the rest of their lives. Gerry loved living in Fort McMurray and was very involved in the community. In 1983 he was given an award of service from the PC party of Alberta after contributing many hours to several campaigns. Gerry was also instrumental in starting the first newspaper in Fort McMurray, the Fort McMurray Express. Gerry loved hockey and wasn't shy to tell everyone the Edmonton Oilers were the best team in the league. He attended many games with his wife and daughter; he was also very involved in the junior A team, Fort McMurray Oil barons, in the 80s and never missed a game. Gerry had an infinite love for his family; they were his life. He never missed an event, whether it was bringing lunch to his grandsons every Tuesday for years without fail or loading his car with kids for sports events. Gerry was a great cook and loved to cook for his family and loved to cook a good meal that everyone could attend was always his favourite. A heartfelt thank you to the Willow Care Continuing Center staff for their love and care for Gerry in his last chapter. To Trina, Jacquline and Michelle, thank you for the support given to Gerry and his family in the last 27 days - your kindness will be forever etched in our hearts. "Deep in our hearts, you will always stay loved and remembered every day." Please join us to celebrate Gerry's life on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at 1 pm at Robert Anderson Funeral services (115-190 MacAlpine Crescent). Online Condolences can be emailed to traceycatherine2020@gmail.com