Helmuth Gerlat, long time educator, wrestling coach, and bench press enthusiast passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 22 at the age of 74.
Hal will be remembered for his many years of calmly and quietly teaching at Leduc Junior High School, his love of athletics, and internationally cigar smoking and sunbathing his way through retirement.
Hal will be lovingly remembered by his wife Diane, children Mindy & Nathan, brother Bill and numerous extended family, friends and co-workers. He may also be missed (and sometimes feared) by countless former students.
We love you.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Canadian Cancer Society.
Serenity Funeral Service, Leduc Ph: 780.980.3688
Tribute wall - a place to share your memories and condolences
Jay
Sometime in the late 80’s, at the junior high, they created a ‘bad kids class’. It was all the troublemakers from the year before. We were all put in one class. Mostly boys. And on the first or second day of school Calvin had something to say – and suddenly Mr. Gerlat jumped up, opened the ground floor window, and grabbed a very surprised Calvin out of his seat, and plopped him outside. Then shut the window. The rest of the year there wasn’t alot of trouble. I never forgot Mr. Gerlat. He was a great teacher and a super nice guy. I’m so sorry to hear he passed away.
Norm & Robin Torry
We have some great neighbors at the condo in Surprise, AZ. You and Hal were definitely among them. It was always fun to talk with you and Hal on the patio when we came and went in our car. We will miss seeing Hal, as I know you and your children will miss him, too. We are sincerely sorry for your loss and we are remembering Hal with fondness.
See you this winter, Diane.
Norm & Robin
Pete and Kathy Knox
Diane and family. Kathy and I are deeply sorry your loss. Hal was a wonderful friend and all around great guy. I enjoyed every moment spent him. He will always hold a special place in my heart and I will remember with fondness the good times we had and cherish his memory. Our thoughts are with you and if you ever need anything please let us know.
Norma Row
Terri and I are very saddened to hear that Hal has passed on. We are so sorry for your loss and we know he will be missed very much. May you be comforted by many happy memories of times gone by. Sending Hugs to you all.
Ramona Bargen
So sorry for your loss! Hal’s family!!! I did not know any of you, but I worked at junior high when Hal was subbing!! Hilarious person and serious about life!! Told stories of helping his mom and fitness! I will miss him. I had been thinking of him previous to finding out he had passed away! I was shocked!! He worked so hard to stay fit. I pray God’s blessing on you all, his family and may you find God’s peace as you journey on without Hal.
Maurena Manchak
From endless slow pitch games and tournaments to teaching with Hal – I will always remember Hal’s character and enthusiasm for life. My condolences to you Diane, Nathan and Mindy.
Wiesener Covey Sjogren Families
Our family would like to send our deepest condolences to the family. I know how much my mum enjoyed her time working with Mr Gerlat. He came to my house to train me on an exercise machine we bought. He teased our son, Ethan and Russell’s son, Ryan when he realized who they were related to. They would often talk when they saw him at the gym. Mr Gerlat was one person we all have memories about. So sorry to hear this sad news.
Sharla, Bill, Russell, Debbie, Dreanne, Todd, Lynness and Roger and all our kids
Katherine Holowachuk (Nooitgedagt)
My condolences on Mr. Gerlat’s passing. Yes, even at 41 he was still Mr. Gerlat to me. He welcomed me warmly when I switched school in grade 8 and landed in his home room. Many kids had a healthy fear of him but I just had the utmost respect and thoroughly enjoyed his humour. I still remember the day he laid my now husband out flat in the school hallway with a simple arm flip. He will be remembered fondly always.
Douglas Simpson
Members Fort macleod Friends Facebook Page. Helmuth’s passing was posted to this page. All are saddened to hear of the passing of Helmuth. These are people that Helmuth grew up and went to school with in Fort Macleod and have send their condolences to this site. We are so sorry to hear of your loss of Helmuth. May he rest in peace. Doug Simpson (admin)
Kim Boorman
To Diane , Mindy , Nathan and family , sending my deepest condolences, so very sorry to hear of your loss. Sending much love and hugs to you all ❤️
Ryer and Marlene McAmmond
Diane, Mindy and Nathan, We are so sorry that your husband and father left you much too soon. We remember Helmut from his one year at Corinthia when we were on the same staff. We remember him as a dedicated professional and stressing that it was important to keep in top physical condition.
Bill and Kathy Gaskell
So sorry for your loss Diane. Our thoughts are with you, Nathan and Mindy
Bill and Kathy
Jennifer Taylor
We are so very sorry to hear this news. We are keeping all
Of you in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I’m just a phone call away if you need anything at all Mindy
Cindy Kwasek
I am sorry for your loss Diane, Mindy and Nathan. I remember many great time with Hal and the P. Ed. Crew. Hal was always ready for a good time.