Gerald Shave
February 2, 1939 to February 14, 2023
Obituary
The funeral service for Gerald Shave will be livesteamed for those unable to attend.
Please click HERE for the link
With profound sadness, we announce Gerry Shave’s passing on February 13th, 2023 after losing a long-fought battle with Alzheimer’s.
Born into a large family in Kapuskasing, Ontario, Gerry regaled us all with stories growing up in a papermill town – playing hockey, summers at their cottage on Remi Lake, Queen Scout adventures, and working nights in the papermill to pay for University.
After graduating with a degree in hotel management from Ryerson College in Toronto, Gerry spent time in the Bahamas, Banff, and Toronto as a hotel night auditor. Then, in 1965, Gerry met the love of his life, Barbara, on a blind date. It was love at first sight. From there, they set out on an adventure when they were transferred to New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and finally to Newfoundland in 1967, which was supposed to be a six-month stay. He would tell you the best thing that happened to him was being transferred to Newfoundland.
Gerry started managing the Strand Cafe in the Avalon Mall in 1967, moved on to running the Strand Cafe and Lounge, opened the Circle Lounge in Churchill Square, and three other Strands in the 1970s. In 1980, Gerry took the risk and bought the original Strand in the Avalon Mall. He tells the story of introducing draft beer to Newfoundlanders that saved the Strand.
And, of course, the famous 2-for-1 steaks on Saturdays. Over the years, Gerry loved to renovate (he should have been in construction instead of hospitality!). He added Sherlock’s Pub upstairs, and finally, in the early 90s, opened Watson’s and Baker Street – making the Strand a whopping 16,000 square feet of restaurants, pubs, and nightclubs.
Although Gerry knew nothing about music, he reinvigorated the Irish Music scene. As a result, the Strand was known for its outstanding roster of music acts, the likes of The Wonderful Grand Band, The Irish Descendants, Signal Hill, Ryan’s Fancy, Sullivan’s Gypsies, Corey and Trina, The Sons of Erin, The Traveling Blueberries, Celtic Connection, 12 Gauge, Biscuit and many more. To entice bands to travel from the mainland to Newfoundland, Gerry acted as a band booking agent and worked with clubs from Montreal east to book the bands throughout Eastern Canada. He may not have known much about music, but he knew which bands would fill up the Strand and the other clubs in Atlantic Canada.
Gerry loved spending time at North River, where he built a cottage. He wanted to ensure that his family experienced cottage life like he did growing up in Northern Ontario. Summers were spent driving the waterski boat (he would never refuse his daughters when they asked him to go skiing) and snowmobile adventures. Building bonfires on the beach and singing Alouette will never be forgotten, and of course, Friday night homemade pizza and country time lemonade. We all remember his many sayings, especially, “All Hands on Deck, Pretty Little Ship in Sight”, “Keep Your Head Screwed On,” and “You never know what’s gonna happen in the big city.”
In 1996, after the Strand closed, Gerry and Barbara bought a condo in St. Pete Beach, FL. Gerry’s dreams of being warm (he didn’t miss 50-below winters in Kapuskasing), playing tennis every day, and not wearing “long” pants became a reality.
Gerry is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara, and his children, Claire, Tracey, and Jannine; son in laws, Peter Lewis and Andrew Houston; his grandchildren, Liam, Matthew, Sarah, Hayley, and David; and his sisters, Dorothy, Beverly, Lorna, and Patricia, and many nieces and nephews. Gerry is reunited with his parents, George and Beatrice, and his brothers, Donny and Murray, sharing stories and belly laughs.
The family will receive visitors at Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Road, on Sunday, February 19th, from 2 – 4 PM and 7 -9 PM. The funeral service will be held at the Carnell Memorial Chapel on Monday, February 20th at 2 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the Alzheimer’s Foundation, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, or the Newfoundland Health Care Foundation in aid of Cardiac Care. The family would also like to thank the staff of Pleasant View Towers – 1SW and 3NW, who took great care of him and made the last couple of years of battling Alzheimer’s a little easier for the family.
Schedule
Visitations
2-4 p.m. on February 19, 2023
7-9 p.m. on February 19, 2023
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
funeral
2:00pm, Monday February 20th
Carnell’s Funeral Home
329 Freshwater Road
View on Map
My Sincere Condolences to Barbara Shave and Family ! I was shocked to hear the news of Mr.Shave’s passing! I was hired to work at the Strand Cafe when they opened..I was still in school and worked part time ! Mr .Shave was an exceptional Boss…and I had alot of respect for him !
I was also your Babysitter Mrs.Shave ..when needed and Mr. Shave also had me babysit for any of the Entertainers that came to play at the Strand Lounge who brought their Family .Such wonderful memories..wish I had known you were in St.Pete’s..we winter in New Port Richey..would have loved to seen you both ! God Bless you and your Family !
Barb and family,
Our deepest sympathy to you all. I know it has been a hard few years but he is now at peace. Our love to you all
Gerry’s family & friends.
Thank you for providing the scene of the best days of my life 67-72, at both the z strand & the Circle. No doubt Gerry by design or luck was the Father of bringing NL rich music culture in to the open and which will last forever.
Terrific memories. RIP Gerry.
I had many business dealings with Gerry. A fantastic person to work with. My condolences to all the family
Tracey and family,
Thoughts and prayers so out to you and your family on the passing of your father. I did not know know him but from reading the condolences and having met you can only imagine the great man he was and the influence he had on people and the community. From reading the condolences and hearing callers on VOCM Openline talk about the great boss he was to many – what a wonderful legacy. As a young university student my friends and I went to the Strand as it was the place to go to watch live music. So many fond memories of these times with friends. May the songs of the angels welcome your dad to his eternal home where he will reunite with friends and family and enjoy new adventures. Kim from Ruah.
Deepest sympathy to mrs. shave and family,
I was only 19 when Mr. Shave hired me (without any experience) as a server at the Strand Lounge. I worked there for 8 years and loved every day.
Mr. Shave was a wonderful boss. He was more than fair in his interactions with his employees. He gave us time on the clock to get in a little Christmas shopping during the slow times of our working day, allowed us to go to vote while still being paid, and many other courteous
I really looked up to and respected Mr. Shave and admired the man he was.
He was very much a true gentleman.
God bless and heaven rejoice in his coming home.
Dale (nee Snelgrove) Doyle
Dear Barbara and family; please accept my sincere condolences. Gerry was a gentle, caring and loving man. He was born just 22 days later than myself. We became friends when you lived in the end house on Larkhall Street, while Marion (my wife) and I lived on the same side of the road at number 8I. It was the late 1960’s.
Gerry became aware of our musical performance group from MUN, University. He auditioned us and payed us as professionals to perform at the Strand Lounge whenever he needed a group to ‘fill-in’ for a week.
In 1971 my wife and I moved to Ottawa and lost touch with you, but we never forgot the times we had shared together.
Marion passed away from cancer 16 years ago. I know what a devastating effect losing a loved one has on one’s life. Only time allows the pain to ease but life must continue. So, be brave, cherish the memories, and be grateful for the time you had together. Live and love some more.
Warm regards,
Peter Bailey.
From all of us here in Littleborough, to all of you over in St John, we are so very sorry to hear of Gerry passing away.
We will always remember Gerry, as a happy fun loving man, a man that made the room light up when he came in. I remember Gerry when I was a little boy, when he came to our house and was laughing away with my Dad, and my Dad giving Gerry my brothers little clogs.
In later years Gerry staying at my house, we got it off as if we had been best buddies all our life. In later years, ringing Barbara and then speaking to Gerry on the phone. He was a great guy, and you were all very lucky to call him, a friend, Dad, grandad, or husband.
RIP Gerry you will be sorely missed 🙏
Barb,
I am so very sorry to hear this sad news.
I know it has been a rough few years so I am sure you will gain some solace that Gerry is now at peace.
With love and sympathy to you and your family,
Lynn and Karl
“Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs to Barb,Tracey,Claire Janine and family .
I have so many fond memories of Gerry and the family in North River in my younger years .He would always welcome you in with open arms and smile I also had the pleasure of working in the Strand at the Avalon Mall and Gerry was the best boss ever .
Gerry was such a gentleman and influenced a lot of people with his kind heart and a great sense of humour .
So sad for your loss . Gerry will never be forgotten and I feel blessed to have known him . Rest In Peace
Tracey and Family; I offer my sincerest condolences at the loss of your dearly loved father. From his obituary, it sounded like he was an amazing father and entrepreneur. May he rest in the loving arms of Jesus Christ, supported by Mother Mary.
Barbara and Family,
So sorry to hear the news of Gerry’s
Passing…. May he Rest in Peace.
Deepest Sympathy,
Mike and Alice Donovan
As l write this message of condolence I’m reminded of the wonderful times we all had in our youth,,particularly enjoying the slopes of the many ski resorts with our ski buddies. Gerry had a presence when he entered a room , his infectious
laugh set the mood for any party. As we all know nothing lasts forever, but I will be forever grateful for having crossed paths with Gerry and Barbara during our phase of life… Rest in peace Gerry..
As l write this message of condolence I’m reminded of the wonderful times we all had in our youth,,particularly enjoying the slopes of the many ski resorts with our ski buddies. Gerry had a presence when he entered a room , his infectious
laugh set the mood for any party. As we all know nothing lasts forever, but I will be forever grateful for having crossed paths with Gerry and Barbara during our phase of life… Rest in peace Gerry…
Tracy, Peter and family
So sorry to hear about your Dads passing.
Heather and I are thinking of you at this difficult time
From reading his obituary, you have many great memories.
Take care, Tom and Heather
Barbara and Family-
We send our sincere condolences to you all. Gerry was certainly a fine and caring man. Thankfully you have some great memories to help console you. May he rest in peace.
Derek and Carolyn Tilley
My sincere condolences go out to Gerry’s family and friends. I first met Mr. Shave when applying for a job as a server.I was so nervous(a babe I’m the woods lol) however Gerry made me feel so comfortable right away. I ended up working at the Strand for 18 years and loved every minute of it.Gerry was an excellent manager but more than that he was always approachable and just plain and simply a nice man.. We had great times at the Strand and Gerry was the one responsible for its great success as The Place to Go. RIP Mr. Shave.
Barb, Claire, Tracy and Janine –
My deepest condolences for the loss of Gerry. I always found him to be warm and welcoming and so enjoyed my visits to Jarvis Place through the years. Affable and genuine, he will be sorely missed.
Thinking of you all with such great family memories of being in North River. My sincerest condolences . Mr and mrs. Shave was always so good to all of us!.
Barbara and family.
So sad to hear of Gerry’s passing. He loved life , living and people and always had a Hugh smile. Please accept our condolences. Thelma and Albert
Barbara, and the girls and families :So sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. Many, many wonderful memories of life at North River. Our thoughts are prayers are with your all. Be assured that the sadness and sorrows of today will fade and fondue memories will prevail .
Well we’re do time go .so sad to see the passing of a great person and business man ..It only seems like yesterday that 12 or 15 of us would gather at the Strand Avalon mall and then take up residence at Sherlock’s pub for a few cold ones ,that went on for about 10 years or more ,back when Gerry would have been in his late 50 s .He would always stop by our tables that we had put togeather as a group have a chat with all of us and bid us all a good evening .Not long after he left the bar maid would bring down a full round for the tables ,that’s on Mr Shaves .Thanks Gerry Fine gentleman .,to Gerry’s family please accept my condolences .
Tracey and family……sending condolences to all. While I didn’t have the privilege of knowing your dad, the beautiful comments that people have made on this site speak to the wonderful man he must have been. May he RIP.
Barbara and family,
Sincere condolences to you all on the loss of your wonderful husband, father, father in law and grandfather.
To the Shave family,
Sending you all our love at this difficult time. Mr. Shave was such a wonderful man who always had the biggest smile on his face whenever I saw him. I have so many great memories of spending time with your family over the last 40 plus years. Whether it was Christmas time, visiting at Jarvis Place, North River or Florida, Mr. Shave always was ready for anything. He will be greatly missed. Thinking of you all and sending big hugs your way.
To the family please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of Mr. Shave. My first job as a teenager was working at The Strand Cafe. Mr. Shave was a nice manager. When I decided to go to Nursing School in 1977 he gave me a very good reference and helped me get accepted to my Nursing career which I was very proud to be a Nurse for 41 years. Thank you Me. Shave and rest in peace.
Please accept my deepest condolences.. My wife and I met while working at The Avalon Mall Strand for Mr. Shave. He was respected as a disciplined businessman but we saw many examples of his compassion and fairness to us and co-workers that went far beyond usual business practices. The Strand was a success because of him and its great reputation as a nightclub, restaurant, meeting place and great music venue are due to his capabilities and hard work.. His contribution to Newfoundland society and culture cannot be overstated.
Brian Tilley
Dear Barb and family;
We were so sorry to hear that Gerry had passed away.
His remarkable reputation preceded him as a patient, kind, insightful and loving family man. He was always a gentleman and spoke highly of his family who he adored.
He really will never leave you ” just whisper his name in your heart…he will always be there “.
Take solace in memories of your happy times together as you work through your grief. Godspeed….rest In Peace Gerry..
Our sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to all of you who loved him.
I was so sorry to hear about Gerry. My sincere condolences to all his family. He was so good to us as a fledgling band , Sullivan’s Gypsies, arriving in Newfoundland on tour from Toronto. And then when Dermot, Denis and I moved to the province as Ryan’s Fancy, Gerry and The Strand Lounge provided us with a venue to hone our skills. The Strand was a mecca for all musicians and friends to gather and sing to our heart’s content all of the traditional songs that were such a part of the province’s heritage. It provided a “family ” atmosphere to so many students attending Memorial University and other colleges around town and people coming in to town to shop.
Thank you, Gerry, for your great contribution to the music and culture of this wonderful province.
Fergus O’Byrne
Thinking of you all with fond memories of North River
I knew Gerry my entire life. We were neighbours when I was a kid growing up.
Myself and my sisters played together with Gerry and Barbara’s children and all the other kids around the street.
Gerry was well liked and respected by everyone.
Fast forward many years, I started playing drums around age 10 or 11. My first bar band that was worthy of playing the Strand was Three Blind Mice. I asked Gerry to give us a chance to play The Strand, and he did. The Mice was a decent band, and we played The Strand many times. Eventually I formed The Travelling Blueberries. Gerry booked us right away, and we played that bar a thousand times and enjoyed every gig ! Gerry was always thinking big and approached us to play outside the Strand in the open Avalon Mall common area that could accommodate a lot of people. We played Halloween and New Years gigs and the place was packed ! What a blast. It was Gerry who thought of that idea and arranged it all with the Mall.
As I got older, I had my fill of playing full-time in a rock band and set my goals on becoming a watchmaker. It was Gerry who gave me the best advice of my life. I told him I had just gotten a job with Mr. Kearney, a well-known watchmaker, and that I really liked it. Gerry said to me “look it, kid… this is what you do… work with Mr. Kearney for a full year and if you still want to become a watchmaker after that, then apply to watchmaking schools and get formally educated”. I did exactly that. That advice from Gerry completely changed my life in every great way imaginable !
Gerry was a great father, husband, neighbour, businessman, and personal friend.
I will always hold him in the highest regard, as he was a good, decent, kind, smart, and cool guy with a great sense of humour.
Our sincere condolences to Barbara, Claire, Tracey and Jannine.
Tracey, Claire and family,
I’m sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
We extend sincere sympathy to Gerry’s family and all those mourning the loss of this gentle man. We knew Gerry through our association with the Strand Lounges when we worked with Carling O’Keefe Breweries. Gerry was a consummate gentleman and it was always a pleasure to deal with him. We are so sorry for his loss. Flo Evans and Justin Conway
Claire & Families: You & I worked together many years ago @ the Hotel.. So sorry to learn of your dads passing. The tribute to him in the obit is so fitting . You must be so proud of his accomplishments. The STRAND is now a part of St. John’s histoty & it was truly the place to be. Take care.
To the Shave family,
So sorry to hear this news. He was such a nice man and well liked by everyone. The kids waterskiing in the summer knew him well as they spent some time together. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Maxine Stanley and family.
To the Shave family. Please accept most heartfelt condolences on your loss. I have such fond memories of your family in North River. It is little wonder that Mr. Shave excelled in the hospitality sector, as he was so hospitable by nature. I am certain that he felt your love and caring as you all suffered with him through such a terrible disease. I most sincerely hope you find solace knowing he is now at rest and his suffering has ended.
Thoughts and prayers are sent to you and your family, Barbara ,we share so many happy memories of having cottages on the same North River, Gerry was always so helpful and caring, may he rest in peace, cherish your memories of happier times, memories are our greatest treasure now
I first met Gerry when I worked at the Avalon Mall in the early 70’s. Back then The Strand was the place to be…Ryan’s Fancy, Sons of Erin and many more. I spent much (too much) of my time there and Gerry was kind enough to let me run a tab. He was a soft spoken man who was very much respected around The Mall.
My condolences to his family.
Tracey & Shave Family Members, Our condolences on your loss . The obituary & condolences honour a gentleman who was respected & loved deeply. May pleasant memories comfort you all as you grieve ; and celebrate a wonderful life. Hugs Geri & Ron
My deepest condolences on Gerry’s passing. He always had a kind word or thought to share. I met him in the early days at The Strand. He made you feel you’ve known each other for years. His kindness to everyone was legendary.. May God bless you
Gerry, your family and friends who grieve this day🙏
To the Shave Family,
Please accept my sincere condolences.
Jerry Shave will always be remembered as a true gentleman and consummate professional…
May he rest in peace.
Barbara. And family,
So saddened to hear of Gerry’s passing.
I am sure he is at peace.
Take care Barbara,
Barbara, Tracey, Claire, Janine and families:
We are so sorry to hear this news. Gere Bear was a joy to be around and his smile lit up the room. We are unable to be there to hug you all but hope that the wonderful memories you must have will help you through this difficult time. We send our love.
Good day Barbara and family
Sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. Very fond memories of times we spent together. He was a great man. Big heart and lots of care for others. Will be sorely missed.
Out of the country now so can’t make wake or funeral.
Wayne and crystal.
Barbara and family, I am so so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. I share your sadness and feel very fortunate to have known him. I feel so fortunate to have known him. He was a kind, generous and so respectful of everyone he did business with. I hope the memories of your years with Gerry will bring you comfort. I know that I will always remember Gerry in the kindest way. God speed Gerry.
To The Shave Family I am so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing and pass along condolences from my Family to yours
. I first met Gerry when I started working in the Strand located in the Village. Over the next 20 years we became good friends as I worked with many of the bands that played in the strand (s) , WGB , 12 Gauge, The Traveling Blue berries and many more. He was always a gentleman and treated everyone with great respect.
The last time I saw him was walking the Reenies River trail a number of years back and it was wonderful to reconnect
Barbara we are so sorry to hear about Gerry’s passing we know that the last few years has been a real strain on you. Let’s hope that he is in a better place and not suffering. God bless. Shirley and Derm
Gerry was a true gentleman’s gentleman in his business dealings and dealing with other people and I’m sure with all aspects of his life. Very sorry to hear of his passing. Sincere condolences to the family.
To the Shave Family, I am saddened to hear of Mr. Shave’s passing. I know he is/was surrounded by a beautiful family and a lovely life but you are never ready to let loved ones go and with that, I send my deepest condolences to his wife, his daughters, all his family because I am certain it has left a unique space. No doubt the final days could not have be easy. Gerry Shave was my first employer and my favorite boss – I loved working at The Strand. I have great memories and I learned so much during that stage of my young life. He was someone who really cared about people and their happiness. Gerry was kind, respectful, joyful, and quick with a joke. Caring without intrusion, Gerry Shave was just a really decent human being. I have no doubt he will greatly missed. Rest in peace Mr. Shave, bless you.
Sincerely, Brigid Louvet (nee Thomey)
Paris, France
Barbara and family, so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Glad and Linda
To Barbara and family. Sending you my sincere sympathy in your time of loss. We can only hope that more can be learned about how to prevent this illness that takes our loved ones. My son used to play in a band “Midnight Blues” at the strand. Your husband gave a chance to local youth. You have so many memories to give you comfort. Phyllis Beckett
To the entire Shave family. Please accept my condolences at this very sad time.
I was a very young musician when first met Mr. Shave, it was at the Circle Lounge on a Saturday afternoon during one of the very popular matinee/jam sessions. Some of the talent that went through that room was just amazing!!
After a few years passed and in late 1978 I I found myself in his company again as I was the drummer/vocalist for the rock band 12 Gauge. Mr. Shave showed us nothing but support and kindness during the years playing in all three Strands. I will remember him as a gentleman with good humour and a tremendous supporter of local music.
I am saddened to hear of Mr. Shave’s passing.. My deepest condolences to the family and friends. May God comfort you during this difficult time.
I worked at The Strand and I have great memories of working there. I remember times that he would stop in to see how things were going. Mr. Shave didn’t hesitate to roll up his sleeves and help in the kitchen. I admired him working side by side with the staff. He also would make sure at Christmas time that everyone had a turkey. On Christmas Eve we would close early and he opened up the kitchen for staff to have a meal. These stories I have shared with many people over the years. He was a fair boss and a hard working man.
Dear Jannine and Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your dads passing. You can keep his memory alive by talking to him and about him every day. Remember the good times, our family memories are our greatest treasures. Thinking about you at this difficult time.
Barbara, Claire, Tracey, Jannine & families, I was saddened to hear of Gerry’s passing. He had such an infectious smile, always welcoming. He was a dedicated Dad & husband. Sending my love and condolences to you all.
Tracy and family
So very sorry for the loss of your Dad.
He always greeted us with such warmth.
Thinking of you at this sad time and wishing you comfort from all your wonderful memories.
Barbara and family
Gerry was a true gentleman. He made the Strand Lounge into one of the most popular music, drinking and eating venues ever in Newfoundland! He was a savvy businessman who was always fair and honest with all suppliers and staff!We had many conversations about Kapuskasing and my time living in Northern Ontario!
RIP old friend!
Jim and Bonnie Crawford
Barbara and family .
so sorry to hear of Gerry’s passing. He was a lovely and gentle man. with a contagious smile .Always enjoyed being in his company. He leaves lots of good memories .
Barb and Kev Hanlon
To Barbara and Family
I am sorry to be informed of Gerry’s passing. While I have tried to keep informed of the friends I made in St.John’s during the 1970’s I did not know he suffered from Alzheimer’s.
My memories are , of course, from the good years and those are what you and your girls should remember. Over the years my kids would learn through Facebook bits and pieces of things that went on in the lives of the Shaves’s..
From my memories , he and you and Claire and Tracy were very social and friendly people and great neighbours. As with the comment in the obituary about his move to Newfoundland I can fully appreciate ,as I too, feel the same.
Remember the good times as they will sustain you in your future years. God Bless.
Barbara and family,
Sending our deepest condolences to the family. Gerry was such a sweet man who always had a kind word and a smile. Thinking of you all during this difficult time.
Ashley and David Squires
Barbara, thinking of you and your girls as you mourn the passing of Gerry. I first met you both back in the mid 60s. You were always so kind and friendly. Claire and Tracey were a joy to babysit. Jannine came along after you moved to Larkhall Street. Gerry is now reunited with his family and is resting peacefully in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father. Rest in Peace Gerry. Love
Barbara and family,
My sincere condolences on Gerry’s passing. Your loving memories of a life together will bring you peace in the days ahead.