Gerald Rupert Groves

GROVES, Gerald (Gerry) (February 1923-December 2018) WWII Veteran (Flight Lieutenant) – Predeceased by his wife and best friend of 55 years, Audrey (1924-1999), his eldest son Alan (1947-1980) who was killed by a drunk driver, also his son John (1950-1999) who was killed in a tragic traffic accident. He is survived by his son Paul (Onalee), his granddaughters; Jenny (Simon), Tracy (Alban), Nicole and his four great-grandchildren; Finley, Lukas, Sabine and Adria. Gerry is also survived by two of his five brothers; Alan and Martyn. Gerry was raised and educated in Watford, England and at the age of 17 he volunteered for aircrew duties in the RAF. After his training, he flew on operations until the end of 1944, serving in Europe and Africa. After completing Staff College at Poona, he was appointed Adjutant of 31 Squadron and later Commandant of 232 Group, serving in India, Burma, Malaysia, Singapore and Java, later serving in the reserve. Five years after leaving the Air Force, Gerry came to Canada with his wife Audrey and their two sons where he was employed in the aircraft and aluminum industries for many years. As a volunteer, he served for over 25 years on committees of CGSB and CSA, was a member of the Construction Specifications Canada, on the Technical Committee of CW&DMA and also served on the Metric Commission. Gerry and Audrey moved to Midhurst in 1987, enjoying retirement, playing golf and traveling. As a volunteer, Gerry was Secretary/Treasurer of Midhurst Union Cemetery, was a member of 228 Squadron Association, a Vice President of 31 Squadron Association, Treasurer of Midhurst Historical Society and a Treasurer of the Barrie/Simcoe Chapter of MADD for over five years, also serving as a director. Gerry was a member of Probus, RCL and the Barrie Veterans Club. Cremation has taken place. Friends may call at the JENNETT FUNERAL & CREMATION CENTRE, 152 Bradford Street, Barrie on Sunday, December 16th, 2018 from 12 noon until the time of memorial service at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations will be gratefully accepted to MADD or to the charity of your choice. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.funeralhome.on.ca
VISITATION
Sunday, December 16th from 12:00 -1:00 p.m.
SERVICE
Sunday, December 16th at 1:00 p.m.
BURIAL / CREMATION
Cremation at Riverside Cemetery & Cremation Centre