Gerda Hnatyshyn
Patron of the arts Gerda Hnatyshyn, the widow of former governor general Ray Hnatyshyn, died July 14 in Ottawa, the Hnatyshyn Foundation announced Monday.
"A wonderful mother and grandmother, Gerda will be remembered by all as a gracious host, generous friend and patron of the arts," the foundation said in a statement.
"Throughout her life, Gerda demonstrated a deep commitment to exemplary public service, and had a gift of making every occasion feel special," the foundation said. "She was an exceptional host who brought friends and acquaintances together through wonderful homemade gourmet meals where she would inspire conversation toward the betterment of the country."
The Hnatyshyn Foundation, a private charity launched in 2002, offered practical support to many Canadian artists over two decades, including scholarships and prizes totalling more than $200,000 annually.
The couple's sons, John and Carl, said their mother believed the arts could bring people together and inspire hope both nationally and internationally.
"She was our guiding force who made family occasions very special," they said. "She was our cheerleader throughout our lives. We will miss her very dearly.”
No cause of death was identified, but she had been ill. The foundation said her death was peaceful.
Foundation chair Cynthia White-Thornley said Gerda built the foundation from the ground up.
"To mark the anniversary in 2023, she wanted to help 10 artists affected by the war in Ukraine and 10 artists of Ukrainian descent in Canada and raise funds to rebuild a cultural facility in Ukraine," said White-Thornley.
"She achieved that vision, through grants and a sparkling gala concert at Rideau Hall and the Carleton Dominion-Chalmers Centre only three weeks before her death. She lived her legacy until the very end.”
Ray predeceased his Winnipeg-born wife in 2002, after more than 40 years of marriage.
Source: Hnatyshyn Foundation
