Gerald Joseph Marks

Sergeant Gerald Joseph Marks

June 1, 1951 – May 4, 2024

It is with our deepest sorrow that we the family of retired Sergeant Gerald Joseph Marks announce his passing at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital on May 4, 2024, with his family by his side.

Gerald was born in Sydney Mines on June 1, 1951, to the late Mary Bernadette “Detta” (Tobin) and Arthur Samuel Marks.

Gerald was a devoted husband to his loving wife of 46 years Medina (Viva), father to Christopher (Mary) but his most important title was that of “Grampy”.  Jacob and Jorja were his absolute pride and joy. He was without a doubt their biggest fan in everything they did and was extremely proud of all their accomplishments.

He is also survived by his sister Carmelita MacRae and brother Lowell Marks.  His sisters-in-law Lola (Jimmy) Tobin, Maria (Leo) Blackie, brothers-in-law Jimmy (Kathy), Michael (Carolyn), Owen (Darlene), Avery (Brenda), Pat (Alana) and Harvey LeBlanc, as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great-nephews who all had a special place in his heart.  He was also survived by a special grandson Mathew (Matt) MacDonald and was so grateful for the relationship they shared. 

Besides his parents, he is predeceased by a brother in infancy Bernardhis mother and father-in-law, Mary Eileen (Monaghan) and Umberto Viva.  His brothers-in-law Joseph Young, William Viva, and sister-in-law Anna Lee LeBlanc.

Gerald was a dedicated police officer for Sydney Mines and CBRM Police Service for 42 years.    After retirement, he enjoyed being an usher at C200.  He was a huge Montreal Canadians and St. Louis Cardinals fan, and the Cape Breton Eagles

Gerald leaves a void in many hearts as he was a constant pillar in his community with all his volunteerism.  For 50+ years he was involved with Little League/Major Baseball, many Minor Hockey Organizations, and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.  Most recently he served as President of the Cape Breton Hockey Federation.

He was recognized for many of his achievements such as being inducted to the Cape Breton Sports Heritage Hall of Fame and the Northside Sports Hall of Fame.  He received The Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia Medal; The Governor General of Canada Medal and his most coveted award was the Carl “Campy” Crawford Award.  This was such an honor as he was the first police officer to receive this award.

The family would like to show our appreciation to the staff of 4D and Pallative Care units at the Cape Breton Regional hospital for the care they showed Gerald as well as us.

Cremation has taken place, and a visitation will be held Wednesday May 8th from 7pm-9pm at J.M Jobes Funeral Home in Sydney Mines.  Funeral service will be held on Thursday May 9th 11:00 am at Holy Family Catholic Parish Hall in Sydney Mines.

In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Palliative Care Unit at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital or a charity of your choice. 

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