
Gerald William Pendergraft
May 6, 1936 – April 10, 2025
Gerald passed away suddenly at home in the early morning hours, with his companion Ally Shymkowich by his side.
He was predeceased by his loving wife Mary Elizabeth (Liz), his parents Ted and Bea, and his younger brother, Ron Pendergraft.
Gerald is survived by his only child Brad (Bev), and his grandchildren Brock (Chantel) and Brynn.
Gerald was born in Osoyoos, and spent his entire life around Osoyoos. He eloped to marry his sweetheart Liz in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho on March 6, 1959. There was a brief 10 years from 1969-1979 where they lived in Bridesville taking over that part of the family ranching operation, but he returned back to the valley. He could be found fishing, gardening, or tinkering with his various projects in his spare time.
Gerald was a cattle rancher all of his life. He also raised Thoroughbred race horses, with a dream of having one race in the Kentucky Derby one day. Unfortunately, that goal was never realized, but on a vacation, he did manage to get to Churchill Downs on Derby weekend.
He was the Starter for the Osoyoos Desert Park Racetrack. He also participated in the Interior Racing Circuit, with his own home bred horses and raced many times in Vancouver as well. He was active in the local horse show / rodeo circuit back in the day, having won many trophies, ribbons, and many, many belt buckles for his calf roping prowess.
His travels included Bali, Mexico, various places in the USA, and a cross Canada trip all the way to Newfoundland, or the “Rock” as he called it.
A graveside service, and a celebration of life will be held in the summer. Date to be announced.
Condolences, tributes, and a more extensive life story can be found by visiting: Nunes-Pottinger.com
