Gerald Conrad Erskine, of Sunset Dr., Bathurst, passed away of lung cancer, surrounded by family and friends on Thursday May 4, 2017, at the age of 59.  He listened to "Juliet's Farewell" from Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet Suite at the end.

Gerry was born in Calgary and although he lived there relatively briefly he maintained a life-long affinity for horses, hard work, and rural culture.  Whether at his acreage in Pennsylvania, in woodlots of the Maritimes, or in offices anywhere he went, he could be seen dressed in his cowboy hat working and making friends with all he met.

He moved frequently as a child until his family settled in Bathurst in 1965, where he attended Chalmers School and Bathurst High School.

Friends from those early years remember him well and, except perhaps for a few malcontents, fondly.  He was known for pranks and risky experiments that seemed to threaten disaster but which always in the end worked out.  In High School he was noted for his good eye and technical skills in photography, and for his pinball prowess.

Gerry was always interested in science.  As a youth he explored the fields and fauna of Bathurst.  Later he studied computer science at St Mary's University and worked in software development, sales and support roles for municipal authorities.  He married, raised two children, fulfilled leadership roles in the Boys Club and Scouting Canada, and was extremely active on other socially beneficial activities.

After a successful career in software, Gerry moved to Pennsylvania where he started a new phase involving horses, held the necessary day job, and continued to make many friends.

His enjoyment of curling was lifelong, which he played from high school to his death, even after his stroke interfered with some of the more athletic aspects of the sport.  He was especially fond of his curling trips to Grand Manan Island.  During his final illness he received numerous calls and messages from fellow curlers who appreciated his eagerness to help, the ability to make friends, and general likeability.

He was predeceased by his father, Roger Thomas Erskine (1975), and is survived by his sons: Andrew and Ian Erskine, his siblings: Neil, Joe and Jane Erskine, and his loving mother, Florence Erskine (nee Taylor).

To respect Gerry's wishes there will be no memorial service.  Donations in his memory can be made to Bethesda Mission, PO Box 3041, Harrisburg, PA 17105 or a charity of the donors choice.