In memoriam: Dr. Joseph Gerrath 1936-2019

The College of Biological Science extends our sympathies to the family and friends of Dr. Joseph (Joe) Gerrath, retired professor in the former Department of Botany in CBS, who passed away on August 10, 2019 at the age of 83.

Dr. Gerrath was a faculty member from 1969, first in the Dept of Botany and Genetics in the Ontario Agricultural College and then (1971) the Department of Botany in CBS, until he retired in 1999. His research interest was in the structure, development, taxonomy, diversity and community structure of algae (phycology), and with a particular expertise in the Desmidiales (Desmids). He taught many courses, including Phycology, Bryology and Aquatic Botany.

Dr. Gerrath was also an active member, treasurer and president of the Canadian Botanical Association. After retirement, he took up geneaology and volunteered at the LSD Family History Centre in Kitchener for many years. Joe will be remembered as a quiet and gentle man who was always generous with his time.