Obituary of Gerald Lineback

Sometimes we live no particular way but our own. Gerald Allen Lineback (Jerry) was a man who epitomized these lyrics penned by his beloved Grateful Dead, and all who knew him were fortunate. A lifetime lover of animals and nature, Jerry was a wise and methodical man who offered sage and helpful advice to many. He helped people whenever he had an opportunity, especially those he considered more in need (which was almost everyone as Jerry was a very grateful and generous man). He loved music, and he had many opportunities throughout his life to see his favorite (and not so favorite) bands live. He was also very artistically talented, curious, observant, had unique and interesting ways of viewing things, and somehow was always ahead of the trends. In 2000 he took a family vacation that transformed his life. He met his love, Jodi Spiegel, at the NL Folk Festival in Bannerman Park, felt an immediate connection, moved to Newfoundland one month later, and together they built a life Jerry previously had only dreamed about. He was able to enjoy many years creating and enjoying meaningful friendships, regularly bringing his friends to laugh-induced tears with his hilarity. He enjoyed hiking and fishing, went on many camping trips, and built a skoolie to continue the journey as we aged. He went on some amazing vacations and continued to attend music festivals. Mostly he enjoyed the beautiful life he spent so much time and energy seeking and building, and he often marvelled at how lucky he was, and how he felt he had won the lottery in life. Unfortunately Jerry had cancer, and despite having had wonderful care and endless hope he died on April 13, 2021. Jerry will be missed by many, especially Jodi (and their many fur babies), his sister Bonnie Sullivan (Tom) and niece Brooke, his mother Angela Lineback (father Bill pre-deceased), Jodi’s parents Bruce and Andrea Spiegel, dear friends/family: David and Debra and family, Bill and Sheila, Maureen and Victoria, and friends/brothers in Toledo: Doug, Lorin, Dan, Bob and George. While Jerry knows we will be sad and miss him, he also would want you to create some meaning and/or fun in his memory. In lieu of flowers/gifts, please make donations to: Forget Me not Animal Rescue; EMT Forgetmenotanimalrescue@outlook.com, password “donation,” comment “for Jerry”, or mail to Forget Me Not Animal Rescue, 19 Ploughman Pl., CBS, NL A1W 0H1. In lieu of/addition to donations please listen to or play some Grateful Dead (or at least spin some vinyl), focus on the present moment, remember it’s all gonna work out, and it’s 4:20 somewhere. To send a message of condolence, please visit www.hickeysfuneralhome.com