Francis Jerome Burgess

Francis Jerome ‘Jerry’ Burgess, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2022, at the age of 81, at his home in Woodstock, Ontario.  His battle with cancer showed his courage in facing life challenges with positivity and despite the pain Jerry kept everyone laughing until the end. 

Jerry was born in Vancouver, B.C. to Frank and Edith Burgess.  At one year of age, the family moved to Brantford, Ontario.  As a child Jerry’s natural ability and love of sport pushed him to excel in both basketball and baseball.  Scouted while pitching for the Brantford Red Sox, his dream of becoming a professional athlete was fulfilled when he signed with the Milwaukee Braves organization in 1959.  Although a traumatic injury shortened his pitching career, his fighting spirit and determination to succeed propelled him through a long and distinguished career in the window and door industry.  Best known for his quick wit and amazing sense of humour, Jerry earned the respect of his peers and always left them ‘laughing’.   

When Jerry retired, his passion for Labrador Retrievers began and it often seemed he enjoyed their company more than most people.  He considered Tyson and Ruby (now deceased) and Zoey to be treasured members of his family.

Jerry was the patriarch of a large and loving blended family and is survived by his children and stepchildren Brent, Ryan, Melissa and Marnie and all the grandchildren Justin, Lillian, Ethan, Austin, Liam, Sierra and Jared.  Jerry is predeceased by his mother and father and his fabulous sister Gayle Boyer.

Left to cherish his memory is the love of his life, Adrienne.  Together for 30 years they were best friends and devoted to one another to the very end.  And we can’t forget Adrienne’s cousin Nancy who Jerry adopted as his sister and loved dearly.  They talked almost every day and shared many hours discussing the Blue Jays and razzing each other.

Jerry was so hoping to make it to see the Blue Jays in the World Series this year, but with their recent performance decided it just wasn’t worth the effort!   

At his request, no Service will be held. Memorial Donations to the Saint Elizabeth Foundation – End of Life Care are most appreciated and may be made directly, or by cheque through Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Ave., Woodstock, Ontario who have been entrusted with Final Arrangements. Your messages of remembrance and condolence may be shared here at wareingcremation.ca