Gerry DeSimone, a beloved and active and long time Amherst Rotary Club member passed away on February 16, 2021.
Gerry DeSimone, a beloved and active Amherst Rotary Club member passed away on February 16, 2021. He is deeply missed, and we mourn his death. Gerry joined Rotary Club of Amherst in 1994; he brought a great sense of humor, dedication to “Service above Self” through selfless participation in hundreds of club projects During his tenure as a Rotarian, he served as President four times. Prior to Amherst club, Gerry belonged to the Rotary Club of East Aurora and the Rotary Club of Delmar. Gerry created our club's Foundation, serving as President and Charter Member, and remained on the Board until his passing. He served as Assistant Governor of our Rotary District 7090 and held numerous other positions as well. Gerry led a Rotary Group Study exchange to South Korea, hosted an exchange student, and took part in a Friendship Exchange to Brazil. His dedication was recognized with two Paul Harris Fellow awards
He volunteered for countless community projects and activities, including: Habitat for Humanity; working with numerous local food pantries; visiting and enriching the lives of residents of local nursing homes; helping at our Rotary Classic Car Show; raising funds for needy and homeless children and families; and so much more.
Gerry made generous personal donations to the Rotary International Foundation, as well as countless district and local projects. Through his welcoming nature, humorous stories about any topic, and love of life, he was responsible livening up meetings and events, which attracted many new club members, including many professionals who helped to strengthen the diversity of our club.
Gerry embodied Rotary's "Service Above Self". He is sorely missed by all of us!
There will be a Memorial Service for Gerry on Saturday, February 27, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter & Paul RC Church, 3480 Main Street in Williamsville. All are welcome.
Flowers gratefully declined. Donations may be made to the Rotary Club of Amherst. They may be sent to the Amherst Rotary Club Foundation c/o Don Lawrence, Foundation President, 31 Coriander Court, East Amherst NY 14051.