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Helmut ‘Hal’ Mathias Gaertner

April 13, 1943 - October 13, 2022

It is with great sadness that we announce that Helmut ‘Hal’ Mathias Gaertner passed away on Thursday, October 13, 2022, at Victoria Hospital in London, Ontario surrounded by his loving family.

Only 79 years of age, Hal lived a happy and full life as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle.  He leaves behind the love of his life, Geraldine Gaertner; daughters Sherri (Brandon) Bocchini, Melanie (Jesse) Riley, Maryann Gaertner and Amy Gaertner. His pride and joy were his two grandsons, Mathias and Liam.  Predeceased by his father Matheis Gaertner, his mother Katharina and stepfather Louis Halasz and his sister, Eva Ewaskiw.  We are joined in our grief by his brother Larry (Linda) Gaertner as well as extended family and many close friends.

Hal graduated from the Ontario Agricultural College at the University of Guelph and later proudly served his community as a Senior First Class Constable with the London Police Force for over 30 years.  With exceptional cooking skills and a passion for BBQ, he showcased an entrepreneurial side when he started Hal’s BBQ Catering which quickly became a favourite across the region.

Hal was known for always putting his family first, his entertaining stories, and his generous heart. He readily offered love, support, and guidance, especially to his “girls” and could always be counted on to fix doorknobs and sinks, design and build beautiful outdoor decks, and gallivant on long road trips for secret backroad gems (and French fries).  He loved to go camping in his RV and greatly enjoyed campfires, watching sunsets with his wife, and teaching his grandsons to fish.

He was brave, kind, strong and funny.  These were among the qualities most treasured by those fortunate enough to know him.

The family will be hosting a visitation for Hal on Monday, October 17 from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, and welcome all to attend to share stories and memories together.  Funeral service to be held on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at Westview Funeral Chapel with interment to follow at Mount Pleasant Cemetery.  As an expression of sympathy, flowers may be sent to Westview Funeral Chapel or you can donate to Diabetes Canada, the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, the Canadian Cancer Society, or a favourite charity of your choice that will help make this world better, just like Hal did.

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A donation has been made to Canadian Cancer Society.

~ David & Lorna Brady


Hal & Geraldine's Wedding Day.

~ Jim dePass

The world has lost a kind and generous soul and I have lost a truly great friend. Hal & I first met through the H.E.L.P. cb radio club back in the late 1960s and developed a friendship that lasted a lifetime. It was my honour to be a part of your's and Hal's wedding party and it was wonderful to have Hal as a part of Marie's and my wedding party. Hold onto all of the memories you have gathered over the years and reflect back on them every day. That way Hal will always be with you as you carry on your daily lives. My sincere condolences to you, Geraldine and to all of the girls and their families, as you carry on with your lives. Your guardian angel will always be looking down on you and guiding your everyday path. I have been blessed to have known such a great person and my love goes out to all of you.

~ Jim dePass

Geraldine and Family I am sorry that I am unable to be with you at the service to celebrate Hal's Life... he was one of a kind in the most positive way... lot's of hugs at Uh Emerg when he would stop by to see his Love Geraldine ... he will be missed, keep your memories in your hearts... sending hugs and prayers, keeping Hal's family in my thoughts ... my sincere sympathies Marion Taylor RN PCP

~ Marion Taylor

So sorry to hear about the loss of Hal. We will always think of him camping and catering our wedding with great BBQ. Sincerest condolences to you Geraldine and your entire family.

~ Fiona and Grant Ellison

Uncle Helmut loved to take us for hikes when we were younger. The escarpment trails in Hamilton and surrounding area were great spots to enjoy nature and each other’s company. We will miss his tall tales and his great laugh! Thinking of you all during this very difficult time. Sending love and prayers to you. With love from Margie Cusick and Family Cathy Chris Kelly and Family

~ Margie Cusick & Cathy, Chris Kelly

Laura and I extend our deepest sympathies to Geraldine and family. Hal was an integral part of many people's lives during his working years as well in retirement. He was a great colleague when he was with the LPS and his gourmet skills were very much appreciated at many events! Rest easy my friend. You left an indelible mark with your generosity, kindness and love for life.

~ Paul Gedies

My heart dropped when I heard the news about Hal. I am so grateful to have known him and to have shared so many wonderful memories with you all as a family over the years. My deepest heartfelt condolences.

~ Jen Obokata

To Geraldine and Girls – Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of Hal. As I said earlier, he was a super person! I so enjoyed working with him at Riverside, especially with the BBQ’s; he was a fabulous cook! And I remember you girls when I directed our Christmas Eve Pageants. Such precious memories! Do know my caring thoughts are with each of you. Norma Clare

~ Norma Clare

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time but I know Hal's love and all of the memories will comfort you and sustain you through the days and years ahead. Hal always had a smile on his face, a story to tell and a recipe to share! He has left behind big cooking shoes to fill. Dennis family reunions will simply not be the same without his food and conversation contributions. Lots and lots of love and hugs. xox

~ Shawn & Melissa Snyders and family

A donation has been made to Heart & Stroke Foundation. Message from the donator: Hal was certainly one of a kind and I have a lot of great memories - from staying at the cottage with your family in Grand Bend as a kid to devouring his amazing cabbage rolls! Hal will be missed at our family events. Lots of love and hugs. Melissa

~ Melissa & Shawn Snyders


Hal as well as the family have been very close to us for numerous years. Hal's Caring, Considerate and Humorous attitude is what we always looked forward to. He will be greatly missed by all but I can truly say that Heaven has achieved another Gem. Hope you and Dad have a gay old time up there. Rest Easy My Friend

~ The Lariviere Family

We knew Hal many years ago through HELP. Our condolences to the family in the loss of a husband and father and friend. May the good memories help you through the tough times.

~ Paul & Florence Hourigan

Hi Geraldine so sorry to hear this news ,I remember those 4 girls well -W always thought we would have a family reunion,Take care and thnaks for telling us- Hugs E&L

~ Edie Taylor and Laurence

Hal was a great person to work and be around. A great story teller. He will be missed by all who knew him. My condolences to his family. John and Cindy Lillycrop.

~ John Lillycrop

I am so sorry to read of Hal's passing. Hal and I have known each other and remained friends since we both worked at what we jokingly called the "Verymental Station" in Vineland Station in the early 60's. He was a wonderfully kind, caring friend who kept close ties to this area, checking in with, and remembering many people who touched his life. I know you, as a family, will miss his guiding light and his zest for life! He packed a lot of sunshine, smiles and humour into his almost 80 years, and will be deeply missed. Sincerely Helen Zimmerman

~ Helen Zimmerman

Dear Geraldine and family Am so very sorry to hear of Hal’s passing. Seems like only yesterday that he would pop in at work to say hello. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Maryann, miss you upstairs. Hugs,Betsy

~ Betsy Henderson

So sorry for your loss. Prayers to all of you

~ Janie Boughner

So very sorry for your loss. May your many happy memories help you through this unbelievably hard time.

~ Joan and Eric and Brenda

So sorry for your loss. Thinking of you all.

~ Jenn and Jeff

Thinking of the family and I’m sorry for your loss. Sherri, your Dad and all his kindness will forever live on. Give each other a big hug, just like your Dad gave you. Take care of each other. xo

~ Louise Sullivan

You will always hold a special place in my heart an awesome friend to myself and my family. Have shared lots of wonderful fun and laughter we carry with us forever❤️ We now have a special guardian angel watching over us😇 Rest in peace and know you are always in our thoughts until we meet again❤️

~ Pam Bilsky

Uncle Hal will always have a special place in my heart. Wish I could be there to share stories of such a gentle man. Will always keep the memories of visits (his famous homemade pancakes) and chats in a special place. Rat in peace Uncle Hal. Sending love and hugs to everyone. ❤️ my heart is broken for Aunt Gerry and all the girls, son n laws and grandsons. ❤️

~ Alli Koprowski

Sending my deepest sympathies to the Gaertner family. My heart is broken for Aunt Geri, and all the girls (Sherri, Melanie, Maryanne and Amy) and their families. I have so many fond memories of Uncle Hal through the years, he was the kindest, most patient, loving man who will forever have a place in my heart. I know that he will be deeply missed by anyone that was lucky enough to have known him. Please let my our thoughts and prayers embrace you today and everyday ❤️

~ Jodi Drover and Family

Services for Helmut ‘Hal’ Mathias Gaertner

Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario

October 17, 2022 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Funeral Service will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario

October 18, 2022 2:00 pm

Make a donation

If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.

Diabetes Canada

Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada

Canadian Cancer Society

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