Gerald Alexander Joanisse

I’ve known Jerry since I was a teenager, when our paths first crossed through the Cadet movement in Cornwall. Jerry had served as Chief Petty Officer First Class (CPO1) of RCSCC Stormont, while I served as Squadron Warrant Officer (SWO) at 325 Cornwall Kiwanis Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron. We shared an understanding of the responsibilities that came with those appointments, and it was the beginning of a friendship that would last more than five decades. Jerry was an enthusiastic marksman with a keen interest in shooting sports. I later recruited him into the Cadet Instructors List (CIL) as a Range Officer, and years later, our paths crossed again when he served at Albert Head Cadet Training Centre in British Columbia while I was Commanding Officer. Jerry went on to devote much of his life to the Air Cadet movement, serving as an officer, Commanding Officer and dedicated volunteer. His more than 50 years of service helped shape generations of young Canadians. His dedication was fittingly recognized in 2024 with national honours from the Air Cadet League of Canada. But beyond the uniforms, appointments and years of service, what I will remember most is Jerry himself. We shared a history that stretched from our teenage years into retirement, with all the memories, experiences and friendships that come with a lifetime of knowing someone. There is something very special about friendships that endure for so many years, and Jerry was part of a chapter of my life that I will always treasure. I had been looking forward to seeing Jerry during my visit to Cornwall this past week. Sadly, that visit was not to be. I will miss the opportunity to sit together, reminisce about the old days and share a few laughs. My warmest and most heartfelt condolences go to his wife, Pat, his daughter, Shari, and all his extended family and friends. I hope they find comfort in knowing how much Jerry was respected, appreciated and remembered by those whose lives he touched. Rest easy, old friend. Thank you for the years of friendship, the shared memories and your lifetime of service. You will be missed, but never forgotten.

May my support warm your heart

My prayers go out to Pat,and Shari. I hope Faith is a comfort to all. Gerry, Pat and Shari have been my extended family over the last few years. With open hearts the welcomed me in for dinners . Gerry assisted me with his knowledge on safety ,care and transferring of ownership of things in my dad's estate. It was such a pleasure meeting Gerry and Faith out shopping , he will be missed by Faith. She just would light up to be near Gerry. Hugs 💜 . Pat and Shari have both worked so hard to make Gerry"s journey the best possible, devoting hours to his care.Sending blessings .

My sincere condolences. We met at the with wheel many moons ago, heaven has gained a good man.

I first met Jerry when we were on the Capt Qualification Course and assigned as roommates at the CAF Staff College in Toronto back in the early 80's. What I remember most was Jerry saying his prayers every night. I later came across him when I came to the Ontario Region of the Cadet Program and again when I joined the Air Cadet League. Jerry's heart was always with cadets and he has touched so many lives on his journey through life. RIP Jerry. Your watch is done. We have the helm.

May my support warm your heart

As a person who lost family before this is sad for the enter squadron and there family hope there are OK

May my support warm your heart

My friendship with Jerry goes back over fifty years and began at 325 Cornwall Kiwanis SQN.   We both served on the Executive of the Cornwall Flying Club for many years and worked to promote aviation to youth in the community.  His contribution to the local Air Cadet Flying Program spans decades. Jerry's service to the Air Cadet Movement in Canada is one of very few that reached  the 50 Year mark. Even more unique is that this entire half century was spent in the service of 325, the Squadron of which he was so proud. He spoke of these cadets often ! Jerry was the longest serving Officer in 325 history. His tenure was 34 years and included two terms as Commanding Officer.  Upon retirement he was immediately recruited by the Air Cadet League as the Squadron Director for 325. He held this position until his passing. Jerry brought integrity and experience to every role. His impact on generations of Air Cadets is immeasurable.  Jerry trained and mentored upcoming officers, and inspired other League Volunteers.  His absence is deeply felt by all, and personally, his friendship is dearly missed. R. Barry Franklin CD Governor First Vice Chair Air Cadet League of Canada Ontario Provincial Committee

A tree is planted in memory of the deceased

More information

Good bye my friend it was an honor to know you and to serve with you. We will see each other again. A brother in Christ.

Capt Joanisse (Ret’d) was one of the most kind and warm-hearted men Francine and I have ever met. We met him in the early 1990’s as a result of Gerry’s association with the Air Cadets of Cornwall. Gerry’s involvement with COPA Flight 59/Cornwall Flying Club was the second link and enabled him to garner support for the Air Cadets from the pilots within that club. His kindness, support of, and warmth towards our 2 young cadets (Neil and Michelle) who were so well treated cannot be forgotten. Pat, Shari and family; On behalf of the members of COPA Flight 59/The Cornwall Flying Club, please accept our condolences on the loss of a well-respected and loved man. He will always be regarded as a man of integrity, trust and compassion. “Rest In Peace Captain J.” Sincerely, Capt (Ret’d) Earle DePass, President, Cornwall Flying Club/COPA Flight 59

May my support warm your heart

I I was a cadet and officer with RCSCC Stormont in the 70s and 80s. Past CO's and staff of Stormont remember him as a dedicated officer, no matter which corps you were with. He was fun to work with and a very jovial kind of guy to be with. I remember him when he attended range practices, giving his special advice. His leadership skills and the way he taught certain courses were challenging and fun. History has its making and he was a top Gun of an officer. Very sad to hear of his passing. A remarkable human being. Condolences to his family and friends and all cadets associated with him. Jose