JEREMIAH “JERRY” HOOLEY

Jerry Hooley, loving husband and dear brother went to be with the Lord on February 16th 2025 at the age of 78.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 42 years, Bonnie Hooley; and sister, Debby Gibson (Murray); and the following sisters in law: Audrey Porayko, Betty Marchessault, Kathy Paul (Robert), and Darlene Schacht (Michael); as well as numerous family and friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, William and Anna Hooley; stepbrother George Porayko; and the following in laws: Lenore and Andrew Gauthier (parents); Dallas and Val Turner; Gloria and Paul Mieyette; and Wayne Marchessault.

Raised in Komarno, Manitoba, and attending school, he was known as the shy boy “Jim”. In grade one when the teacher asked his name, he mumbled Jeremiah, which the teacher understood as Jim. So, Jim he remained.

His father brought him to the airport at a young age to show him the airplane engines that he worked on. His friend Martin Smyk took him up in his plane in his teens and an interest in airplanes was solidified

His Dad helped him move to Winnipeg after graduating high school, finding him his first job at Eaton’s and a place to live in a rooming house.

He spoke fondly of later rooming with his friend Charlie Gibson while working briefly at Dominion Bridge. When he started at Canada post he worked nights. So rooming with his sister Debby who worked days, suited them well.

He enjoyed going back home to Komarno on the weekends to hang out with his cousins and friends, affectionately known as “the groovy crew” who were a fun and reckless bunch. Jerry broke his leg while sledding with the crew who pulled him with a vehicle using the hood of a car as his sled. We are grateful the groovy crew's experiment with dynamite didn’t prematurely end his life.

While attending Evangel Chapel, Jerry volunteered as driver for the “Snoopy” Sunday School bus. It was at this church, like Charlie Brown, a certain little redhead caught his eye.

Jerry summoned the nerve to kiss Bonnie for the first time on November 9, 1980. He faithfully celebrated this “kissing anniversary” every year for the next four decades by presenting her with small gifts to celebrate that special day.

Jerry and Bonnie were married nearly two years later on October 9th, 1982. (Because November 9th didn’t land on a Saturday). Bonnie was the love of his life. He often reminded her that his purpose on this earth was to love his wife as Christ loved the church. He never failed in showing her that daily. They enjoyed their many years together as “The Hooleyweds”.

Bonnie’s co-workers saw that love when once Jerry retired. He would drive to meet her for lunch every day, often packing a picnic so they could eat outdoors, or randomly bringing her flowers. He wanted to ensure Bonnie took a break in her busy day.

Jerry first met his step brother George at his mom’s funeral in 1983. An instant bond was created with his brother and family who immediately welcomed Jerry. He enjoyed trips in George’s motor home while sparring puns with his niece Patty.

Jerry was generous with his time and was willing to volunteer and help. Many family members were blessed by the rides he was willing to give to and from appointments when needed. He also volunteered for a few years at the youth drop-in centre at his church, preparing lunch for teens.

Jerry loved to shop, which led him to volunteer to be the shopper for each church he attended. Combining his love for dessert, he also volunteered to shop and choose cakes to deliver to L C Taylor employees each time a birthday was celebrated.

Jerry had a lot of interests. Too many too list and too many for his basement to hold. His major interests included reading, photography and astronomy. He proudly remembers his photo being chosen to be printed in Sky and Telescope magazine.

Jerry loved working with his tools. The multi-level deck on the steep hill to the lake he built at his cottage was a testament to his talents.

He was also interested in woodworking and making ornaments and displays. (It may be more accurate to say - collecting tools and supplies for these interests was the hobby)

We would be remiss if Jerry’s love for Christmas was not noted. He loved collecting ornaments and decorating for Christmas. His ornament collection outmatched any local store. For many years family would admire his decorations at the large annual Christmas Eve parties.

Jerry was kind, gentle, generous, loving and extremely patient. He never complained if he had to sit and wait endlessly. He was greatly loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

We are thankful for all who helped in caring for Jerry during this past year. The family who visited regularly, and took Jerry out faithfully. The nephews who dropped everything to come help Jerry off the floor when we texted “Uncle Jerry 911”. The family and friends who worked tirelessly sorting through Jerry’s mountains of interests. Hauling and delivering the many donations made.

We are also grateful to the homecare and respite workers who lovingly cared for Jerry and made him smile every day and the staff at Tuxedo Villa Personal Care Home who loved and cared for Jerry like family.

We love you, Jerry. 

You are an example to us all. 

You will be truly missed.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at Faith Bible Church, 600 Minto Street, Winnipeg. 

(Flowers are gracefully declined)

Jerry’s family kindly requests that all of his friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour his memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.

​

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

​