Gerald Francis Lathlin was born on October 14, 1961, in The Pas, Manitoba, to Gordon and Mary Jane Lathlin. Gerald grew up on Opaskwayak Cree Nation, formerly known as The Pas Indian Band, where he was raised surrounded by family, community, and the values and teachings that would guide him throughout his years.

                  Gerald received his education in the Town of The Pas, where in 1978 he met the love of his life, Margaret. Their love story began at a young age, and together they built a life rooted in love, family, and commitment. Gerald and Margaret were married in 1980 and shared many years together, creating a family Gerald held close to his heart.

Together, Gerald and Margaret brought four beautiful children into the world: Trevor, Melissa, Vanessa, and Carlena. Gerald took great pride in being a father and worked hard to provide love, guidance, and support to his children throughout their lives.

Gerald started working as a stock boy at the young age of 14, marking the beginning of a strong work ethic that would stay with him throughout the years. Through dedication and hard work, he held many roles within Opaskwayak Cree Nation, gaining the respect of colleagues and community members along the way. His journey eventually led him to his current role as General Manager of Kikiwak Inn, a position he carried with commitment, leadership, and pride. Throughout his years there, Gerald built many meaningful relationships and connections with employees, creating lasting friendships and earning the respect of those who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Gerald was a devoted believer in the traditional way of life, wholeheartedly participating in many ceremonies that honored his heritage. He deeply trusted in the power of traditional medicine and lived his life with purpose and dedication. Never one to waste a moment, Gerald generously shared the wisdom and teachings he had gained over the years, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. His commitment to preserving and passing on these traditions will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

Gerald’s favorite pastime was spending time out on the land. Whether he was hunting, fishing, or listening for moose, those were the moments he cherished most. He especially enjoyed sharing those experiences with his son, nephews, sons-in-law, brothers, and brothers-in-law. Being out on the land brought Gerald peace, connection, and some of the memories he held closest to his heart.

Gerald’s greatest role in life was becoming a grandparent. He was blessed with 10 beloved grandchildren, with one more precious grandbaby on the way. Becoming a grandfather brought Gerald immense joy and pride, and he cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren. Each held a special place in his heart, but he shared an especially close bond with Jackson Jayden, creating memories and connections that will be treasured forever.

Gerald will always be remembered for his professionalism, his sense of humour, and his caring, calm presence. He had a special way of making people laugh and could always bring humour into a room, but he also made sure those around him knew they were cared for. His kindness, warmth, and genuine nature left a lasting impact on the many people who had the privilege of knowing him.

Gerald was predeceased by his beloved son, Trevor; his parents, Gordon and Mary Jane Lathlin; his father-in-law, Patrick Personius; his mother-in-law, Eileen Cook; his siblings, Greg, Massan, and Joan; his sister-in-law, Veronica Lathlin; his brothers-in-law, Derek Fontaine, Ralph Anderson and Pat Cook; his nieces, Erin, Steffi,  and Gabriella; and his nephews, Kenneth, Riel, Jesse, BJ and Mitchell; great niece Evoni Desiree Lathlin; great nephew Billy James Knutson.

The family apologizes if any names have been unintentionally missed during this difficult time.

Gerald leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife and love of his life, Margaret Rose Lathlin; his children, Melissa (Robert Jr.), Vanessa, and Carlena (Toussaint); and his cherished grandchildren, Tory, Emma, Trevor, Alyssa, Dylan, Jackson, Ania, Austin, Robert, and Everly.

Gerald also leaves behind his mother-in-law, Irene Personius; Daughter-in-law, Alydia Lathlin; his siblings, Donna (Bill) Knutson, John (Nadine) Nasecapow, Ken Lathlin, Peggy Lathlin, and Joe (Helen) Lathlin; along with numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, many friends, business colleagues, and his close friend, Bill Rodgers, whose friendship meant so much to him over the years.

Gerald also held a special place in his heart for his “adopted children”, Russel Doug Highway and Stacey Banhegy, who were loved as family.