Obituary of Gerald Griffore

GRIFFORE: Gerald -

May 8, 1938 - July 27, 2024 (86)

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gerald Griffore, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, on Saturday, July 27, 2024.

Born on May 8, 1938, in Dover Township, Gerald was the cherished son of Treffle and Florine Griffore. He grew up on a farm in Grande Pointe, where he developed a love for the outdoors and a strong work ethic.

At the age of 4, Gerald became Deaf due to complications from the measles and spinal meningitis. Despite this challenge, he thrived, attending the Ontario School for the Deaf in Belleville for 14 years. He flourished in many sports activities throughout his years there. His resilience and determination were evident throughout his life.

On June 22, 1968, Gerald married Judy Griffore (nee Lerg) from Michigan, and together they shared 30 years of marriage. They were blessed with three children: Jennifer Suitor (Jamie), Julie Vandernaalt (Jason), and Matthew Griffore (Sarah). He was a proud grandfather to Jennifer’s children: Emma (23), Maddie (21), Kate (19), and Charlie (15); Julie’s children: Marley (19), Graham (17), and Sully (15); and Matthew’s children: Lacee (10), and Soffia (7).

The family cherished their time at his parents’ cottage in Mitchell’s Bay for many years, where they enjoyed boating and fishing.

Gerald had an unmatched passion for many sports, especially for the Canadian Football League (CFL), and women’s hockey. He also found great joy in watching Western films starring Allan Rocky Lane, Roy Rogers, and others.

For over 30 years, Gerald worked as a meter repairman for Union Gas, retiring in 1995. He was an active member of the Ontario Deaf Sports organizations and dedicated much of his time to coaching his daughters’ teams in baseball, ringette, and hockey. Watching his children and grandchildren participate in sports brought him immense happiness.

Gerald was a huge advocate for deaf sports. He followed all deaf sporting events closely, amassing a huge archive of articles and memories. He had a statistical sense in remembering names, dates and information on sports data. He was also a long time member of the Ontario Deaf Sports Association and the Windsor Association of the Deaf.

Gerald’s legacy of love, perseverance, and dedication will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Family will receive friends at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Thursday, August 1, 2024 from 6:00 - 8:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated as St. Agnes Parish, 52 Croydon Street, Chatham at 10:00am on Friday, August 2, 2024. Interment to follow at St. Philippe Cemetery, Grande Pointe.

Donations made in memory of Gerald to the Ontario Deaf Sports Association Inc. or Canadian Hearing Services would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com

McKinlay Funeral Home

459 St. Clair Street, Chatham

519-351-2040