Gerald Rayner

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of D. Gerald Rayner on April 30, 2016 at the age of 50.

Gerald leaves behind his wife, S. Brenda Small, his father, John S. Rayner and his wife, Ann Rayner, his brother Graham (Karen) and sister Jennifer as well as nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles. 

Predeceased by his mother Naomi Curry, and brother-in-law Chief Randy Kapashesit. 

Gerald enjoyed many vocations and avocations over the course of a life lived on his own terms: practicing lawyer, chef, avid fly fisherman and knot tier, accomplished knitter, wicked darts player and devoted reader of The New Yorker. 

He was fiercely intelligent, deeply loyal and uncommonly funny. 

Born and raised in Ottawa, Gerald attended law school at the University of Toronto but moved north to Thunder Bay in 1994 to launch his legal career. He found a true home in the north after he began tree planting in the summers. 

He loved living in Thunder Bay with Brenda and their cherished dogs, Fargo, Shuga and Buster. Gerald loved Lake Superior, the vistas and wildness of northern Ontario and Minnesota. 

His friends and colleagues will recall his legal arguments, his beautiful food and kindness to others.  He is deeply missed.

The funeral service will be held on  Monday May 9th at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Harbourview Funeral Centre presided by Rev. Chris Harper. Interment in Riverside to follow the reception.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Thunder Bay Humane Society or the Northern Lights Dog Rescue.