Tribute

It is with sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Frank Gierc, age 95. Frank is predeceased by his wife of 68 years, Aniela; and is survived by his four children, Wanda (Vern), Joe (Karen), Frank Jr. (Anne), and Tom (Lael), as well as a large extended family. Respect.

Frank was born in the village of Białokiernicy, Poland (Ukraine), to Joseph and Sophie Gerc. The family was forcibly removed from their home by the Russian/Ukrainian communist regime, and relocated to a gulag in Siberia. They survived the work camp, and attempted to resettle in the Middle East. Following the death of his parents, Frank enlisted in the Polish Division of the British Army in Uzbekistan. He was relocated to Scotland, trained as a tank mechanic, and proudly served in WWII. At the end of the war, Frank and Aniela immigrated to Argentina, and then to Canada in 1956.

The family bought a small farm in Glenora, where they lived for 40 years. Frank worked at the Honeymoon Bay sawmill from the 1960s to 1982; built houses around the valley; and was heavily involved with the Vancouver Island Polish community. Though he officially retired in 1981, he worked as a handyman until 2006 – and, afterward, continuously tinkered and fixed things. He greatly enjoyed telling stories, visiting with family and friends, attending the Farmer's Market, and spending time in the garden. Frank was extremely dedicated to his grandkids, frequently hosting sleepovers, joy-rides in the farm fields, family vacations (including Disneyland!), and proudly supporting their university education. Respect.

The family would like to thank Dr. Watson, Dr. Burger, the Staff at Sunridge (especially the bathing team!), and Harmony Health Care for their dedication and support. Respect.

A Mass for Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Edward's Church, 2085 Maple Bay Road, Duncan, on Thursday, June 9th, 2016, at 11:00AM. Reception to following in the church basement.