GERROIR, Alfred Leonard, of West Arichat

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Alfred Leonard Gerroir of West Arichat who passed away on May 8th, 2025 at the Strait Richmond Hospital in Evanston.

Born in Arichat, he was the son of the late Leo and Mary Agnes (Forgeron) Gerroir.

Leonard was a devoted Industrial Arts teacher who spent over 30 years at Isle Madame District High, inspiring countless students with his passion for woodworking. His craftsmanship extended beyond the classroom, as he contributed his skills to the community through a range of home improvement projects and the creation of practical wooden items like boats, trunks, mantels, and spoons. In his later years, he turned his attention to more intricate woodworking, crafting items such as crib boards, wooden toys, nautical-themed decorations, a guitar, and ornaments.

Leonard was a kind, generous, and hardworking man, known for his storytelling and infectious, hearty laugh that he shared freely with both family and friends. He deeply valued faith, family, music, woodworking, gardening, creativity, nature, and the simple joy of home-cooked meals. A man of unwavering positivity, he was a dedicated member of his church and community, always striving to see the best in others. Leonard was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, colleague, and friend whose presence will be profoundly missed.

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Mary Gloria (Landry); three children: Nigel of Truro, Jacqueline (Brian Hoffert) of West Arichat, and Laura (Terry) Martin of Saskatoon; nine grandchildren: Nicholaus, Dominique, Alexandra, Makayla, Makaila (Minnie), Tatyanna, Bryson, Nicole and Cameron; siblings Herman, Violet, Anna, Milton and brother-in-law Alan Magnusson and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister Dora, his sisters-in-law Lorraine and Mathilda and his brother-in-law Yves Tessier.

Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation per request. A funeral mass will take place May16th, in our Lady of Assumption Church, Arichat, at 2pm, with Rev. Duncan MacIsaac officiating. A celebration of life will follow at the New Horizons Seniors Centre in Arichat. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Strait Richmond Palliative Care Society or to the Isle Madame Food Bank.

The family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to all the doctors, nurses and staff at the Halifax Infirmary, Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Saint Martha’s Hospital, Strait Richmond Hospital, Cape Breton Cancer Centre, and the many friends, family and local health care professionals that have cared for and helped support Leonard and his family during his final journey.