Passing of RSM, CWO Alvin Gerald (Gerry) Schramm, CD

CWO Gerry Schramm, CD

CWO Alvin Gerald (Gerry) Schramm, CD

April 15, 1936 - March 26th, 2025

Alvin Gerald (Gerry) Schramm was born on April 15, 1936, in Saskatchewan, Canada. At the age of 16, Gerry moved from Grayson, SK to Burnaby, BC to live with his aunt and uncle and to finish high school.

Gerry became engaged to Barbara Pearl Tripard on July 2nd, 1958, and married on September 6th, 1958. Gerry and Barbara welcomed their daughter, Laurie, into the world in November of 1960, and their son, Mark, in June of 1964. Gerry lost Barbara after a long battle with cancer on November 15th, 1980. Gerry and Barbara’s short time together was full of love, life and many adventures.

Gerry worked at the Bank of Nova Scotia before joining Canadian Pacific Airlines, where he served as an auditor and manager until his retirement. His meticulous attention to detail and strong work ethic earned him respect and admiration from his colleagues. Gerry’s role at CP Air allowed him to travel extensively for both business and pleasure, and he often shared captivating stories of his adventures with his family. Hawaii and especially Maui was one of his favorite places to visit. Early in his career with CP Air, Gerry attended night school at UBC.

CWO (retd) Gerry Schramm, CD demonstrated his dedication to his country through his almost 21 years of service in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve, where he held the esteemed position of Regimental Sergeant-Major (RSM) of the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada. He enlisted in 1958 during an open house at Seaforth Amoury with some friends, he was the one that stuck with it becoming RSM in 1974 through the mentorship of many storied members of the regiment. Gerry served in this position until 1978 when he retired after almost 21 years of service. His leadership and commitment to his regiment were highly regarded by his peers and subordinates and the relationships he formed with his Seaforth brothers endured until his passing.

Gerry was also an active participant in his children’s activities, always making time to support, coach and encourage them. His involvement in their lives created lasting memories and strong family bonds.

Additionally, Gerry’s passion for sports was evident through his semi-pro football career, which showcased his athleticism and determination. Other sports that Gerry was passionate about included golf, curling, hockey and baseball. Gerry was a lifelong fan of the BC Lions and the Vancouver Canucks and attended many games over the years. His family have fond memories of weekends at the ballpark while dad played on a Seaforth team at South Memorial Park.

Following retirement, Gerry and his partner Pauline were able to spend many years traveling the world, enjoying children and grandchildren and loving life together. Throughout his life, Gerry was a mentor to many, offering guidance and support to those around him. His wisdom, kindness and firm moral convictions left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. Gerry’s legacy of service, dedication, and love will be remembered by all who knew him.

Gerry passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on March 26th, 2025. He lived a long and full life and will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

RSM Schramm’s Celebration of Life will be held at 1300 on 12 July, 2025 at the Seaforth Armoury.