Gerald Arthur Crotty

Gerald Arthur Crotty, 89, of Greely Ontario, died Tuesday September 29, 2026, at Saint-Vincent Hospital surrounded by family.

Gerald was born in Burritts Rapids, Ontario, in 1936 to Dorothy Helen Crotty (née Dougherty) and Arthur John Crotty. At 18, he left home to join the Royal Canadian Navy, serving aboard HMCS Bonaventure. After marrying, he transferred to the Royal Canadian Air Force. Following his retirement from the military, he completed his career at National Defence Headquarters.

Gerald knew he had found the love of his life when he saw Doreen Mary-Joan Cardill—the farm girl— sitting on her porch on Poplar Street. They married on October 27, 1962, and welcomed two children, Gerry and Karen.

Gerald leaves behind his wife, Doreen; his children, Gerry (Suzanne) and Karen (Paul Charbonneau); six grandchildren—Connor (wife Gabbie), Brianna, Cameron, Braeden, Owen, and Reagan, his sisters, Marguerite (Andy Cummings) and Susan (Glen Hickling) as well as many in-laws and nieces and nephews.

Gerald was pre-deceased by his parents; his brothers Wayne, Robert (Brenda), Barry (Donna), and Brian; and his niece Marie and nephew Brian.

Gerald was a calm, dependable man who appreciated life’s simple pleasures and treated everyone without judgment. He loved the outdoors and sports, especially fishing, hunting, and hockey.

Spending time with his grandchildren brought Gerald great happiness. Together with Doreen they drove to activities and appointments, cared for them, supported their interests, and encouraged them to work hard toward their goals.

Those wishing to honour Gerald’s memory with a donation may consider Saint-Vincent Hospital.

A celebration of Gerald’s life will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 2 to 5 p.m. at McEvoy-Shields Funeral Home and Chapel, 1411 Hunt Club Road, Ottawa.