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With a fight to the end, Jerry Stevens passed away from heart complications on Thetis Island, in British Columbia, on June 27, 2024, at the age of 71. A side effect of his heart condition was an enlarged heart; rather fittingly, the family always said Jerry had a big heart since he would do anything for anyone in need. Jerry was a builder, renovator, heavy equipment operator, truck driver, real estate agent, and nature lover, as seen in the beautiful gardens in every house Jerry and Ingrid ever owned, to the greenhouse in their current home overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Beloved husband, best friend, and teenage sweetheart of Ingrid Stevens for 52 years, Jerry was born on April 25, 1953, in Sarnia, Ontario, to John and Anne Chrapko. He is survived by his loving wife, Ingrid; his children, Jennifer Fynn (Jeff) and Daniel Stevens (Ashley); his grandchildren, Persephone and Patrick Fynn, and Hank and Charlie Stevens; and his four siblings, Marianne Clift (late David), Lucy Lariviere Tirey (late Raymond), Chuck Chrapko (Carol), and Anastasia Chrapko. He is also survived by nine brothers-in-law. A Celebration of Life will take place at the Nanaimo Golf Club on August 16, 2024. Many thanks to the dedicated first responders who worked tirelessly in attempting to revive him roadside, and to the staff of the Cowichan District Hospital in Duncan and the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, BC, for their past care. A special thank you to the coroner who commented on how conscientious Jerry was to stop his vehicle, put on the four-way flashers, and wait for help. Jerry, a.k.a. Jarko—husband, father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, good friend, and employer of several over the years—will be missed and forever loved in the hearts of many. Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.
