PEDERSEN, Gunnar

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Gunnar Pedersen on December 26, 2011 at the Sault Area Hospital at the age of 84. He went peacefully with family at his side. Beloved husband and best friend of Ginna for 59 years. Predeceased by his parents, Henri and Elly Jensen. Brother-in-law of Verner Nielsen (Bente). Predeceased by Arne Nielsen (Lena), Henri Nielsen (Edna), Hans Christian Nielsen, Thora Sorensen (Nils), Fleming Nielsen (Bea). Loving father of Susan Switzer (Terry) of Wawa, Ted Pedersen (Mickey) and Sharon Eder (Joe). Cherished Morfar/Farfar of Jessica Leclair (Adrian) of Oshawa, Anya Switzer, Nick Pedersen (Sophie) of Hamilton, Dannica Switzer of Thunder Bay, Sarah Eder and Ben Eder (Leah). Oldefar of Ella Leclair and new arrival Kenzie Leclair. He will be missed by his cousins and his many nieces and nephews across Canada and Denmark. Gunnar emigrated from Copenhagen, Denmark in 1951 and was one of the first Danish immigrants to settle in Sault Ste. Marie after World War II. He loved his new home but was always proud of his heritage. He was a member of the Ironworkers Union and in the later part of this career; he was involved in the construction of many of the modern facilities at Algoma Steel including the BOSP, Plate Mill and Tube Mill. After retirement from construction, he pursued a new career with his wife and family in the antique trade which lasted another 25 years. He had many adventures in the pursuit of hidden treasures all over the world. He greatly enjoyed the opportunity to visit with the many loyal customers to their store. He felt passionately about the need to serve others and was able to fulfill that need to through the Masonic Lodge, Shriners and White Shrine. A die hard hockey and Toronto Maple Leaf fan, he had the privilege to coach Bantam level hockey and had a positive impact on many young men’s lives. He was his happiest being around his family and providing a shining example for all of us to live by. He enjoyed visiting Cuba for the past 35 years and spent as much time as possible at his camp trolling for the legendary “grand dad” lake trout residing there. In respect to Gunnar’s wishes, a private family service was held on Thursday, December 29, 2011 at the Greenwood Cemetery Chapel. Rev. Phil Miller officiated. Memorial contributions to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice would be appreciated. Expressions of sympathy may be offered at www.arthurfuneralhome.com.