Obituary of Gerald Molnar

MOLNAR - It is with deep sorrow that the family of Gerald (Jerry) Michael Molnar of the Yorkton/Melville District announces his peaceful passing on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at the age of 83. Jerry was born on June 8, 1941, at the Yorkton Hospital to James Michael Molnar and Agnes Marie Molnar (nee Bucsis). He grew up on the family farm near Otthon, SK, a place that held great significance to him, as it had been passed down through generations - first belonging to his grandfather Michael Molnar, and later to his parents, James and Agnes Molnar. Farming was Jerry’s lifelong passion, but his greatest pride and joy were his children: Gerald (Gaylene) Molnar of Saskatoon, Craig Molnar (Jordan Moore) of Ontario, and Dawn (Michael) Smith of Yorkton. Jerry’s work extended beyond farming, as he spent 32 years with the Canadian National Railway. He began his career with CNR and became a Locomotive Engineer in 1973. Upon his retirement, Jerry downsized the farm and opened Jerr’s Rad, though many will remember it more for its warm hospitality and good conversation than for its radiator repairs. Jerry had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome, and his home and business were always open to friends, family, and even strangers. In his spare time, Jerry enjoyed taking his children on family vacations across North America, visiting relatives, volunteering with the Yorkton 4H Beef Club, and indulging in his favorite pastime: fishing. Whether it was from a boat, off the shore, or just enjoying a fish fry, fishing was a constant in Jerry’s life. A proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous, Jerry credited the program with saving his life. He was deeply committed to his 45 years of sobriety and spent much of his life helping others on their journey to recovery. He was also involved with Al-Anon and Alateen, and was known for attending gatherings and offering support to those in need. Jerry made many lifelong friends through the program, and these friendships were among his most cherished. Jerry was predeceased by his parents, James and Agnes Molnar; his brothers, Arnold Molnar of Regina and Elmer Molnar of Melville; his sisters Lorraine Holowka of Otthon, and Esther Bowen of Winnipeg; Brothers-in-law Marion Holowka of Otthon, and Bill Bowen of Winnipeg. He is survived by his Sisters-in-law Beatrice Molnar of Melville/Yorkton, and Myrna Molnar of Regina. He leaves to mourn his passing, his children and grandchildren: Gerald (Gaylene) Molnar and their children: Breanna (Travis) Stephen, Brett Molnar, and Zachary (Jade) Molnar; Craig Molnar (Jordan Moore); and Dawn (Michael) Smith and their children: Abigail Smith, Sophie Smith, and Reed Smith. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and a wide circle of friends who will miss him dearly. Jerry will be remembered for his generosity, sense of humor, unwavering spirit, and the deep love he had for his family and community. Visitation was held on Thursday, May 1, 2025 from the Yorkton Memorial Gardens Family Centre. The Funeral Service was held on Friday, May 2, 2025 from the Yorkton Memorial Gardens Family Centre with Doreen Day as celebrant. Dawn, Gerald, and Craig delivered the eulogy. Tributes were given by Gerald’s grandchildren Breanna, Brett, Zach, Abby, Sophie, and Reed. The interment followed in the Garden of Gethsemane, Yorkton Memorial Gardens with Zach Molnar, Travis Stephen, Reed Smith, Brent Molnar, Bill Sullivan, Dave Price, Bruce Del Bigio, and Lorne Miller serving as casket bearers. Honourary casket bearers were friends of Bill W. Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association as gifts of remembrance.