Gerald (Gerry) Joseph Yorke,80

Glace Bay, N.S.

It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Gerald (Gerry) Joseph Yorke on March 7, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Born on November 11, 1945, to parents the late John and Matilda Yorke (Kokoska) of Hill Street, Glace Bay.

Gerry is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Jerusha (Swartzack), children Angie (Jimmy), Gerry (Brigitte), Stephen, Arlene (Colby), and grandsons Jeremy, John, Ian, Jack and Sam. He is also survived by his sisters Rose and Irene (Terry).

Along with his parents, Gerry was predeceased by his brothers Bernie, Eddie, and Ches, his granddaughter Elizabeth, and his best friend and brother-in-law, Jimmy.

Gerry was a dedicated teacher and taught at Junior High school level for 33 years and was loved by all his students. He graduated from St. Francis Xavier University in 1968 with a Bachelor of Education degree and from Dalhousie University in 1976 with a Master of Administration degree. Gerry began his teaching career at Holy Cross School, then moved to St. Anthony’s Junior High School as Vice Principal, after which he took the same position at St. John’s School. He finished his career by serving as Vice Principal at Morrison Junior High.

As a young teenager, Gerry was involved in the cadet core and instructed at the Caledonia unit for a few years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman in his younger years and loved his time in the outdoors. He put himself through university by traveling to Ontario and working several jobs there.

In October of 1967 Gerry married the love of his life, Jerusha, and started a family. In 1971 he built a home for the family and as the years progressed and the family grew, he decided a bigger home was needed. He then built our new home in 1979. He was a self-taught carpenter and built two additional homes for sale.

Gerry lived his life next to the ocean and there was no place he loved more. He was a friend to every animal and bird that entered his yard and his binoculars were a permanent fixture on the counter.

The family wishes to thank the amazing staff at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, especially the staff in the Palliative Care Unit for their kindness and support.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday March 13, 2026, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., in T.J. Tracey Funeral Home, 370 Reserve St., Glace Bay, (902)849-4199.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Palliative Care Unit at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital.

To share words of comfort with Gerry’ family, please visit our website at www.tjtracey.com.