Hali Rae Gernon. March 18, 1971 to Jan 20, 2025.

 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Hali Rae Gernon. She was taken too soon, but this remarkable woman touched the lives of so many, and leaves a legacy of how to live with passion and joy, generosity and gratitude.

In her hometown of Sault Ste. Marie, Hali first kindled her love of sport, playing on her high school basketball team. But it was at the University of Ottawa where she developed her enduring love of ultimate frisbee, a passion that would take her around the world, becoming the source of much joy, many stories and lifelong friends. And in true Hali fashion, for many years she gave back as a committed and enthusiastic volunteer coach with the Ottawa junior program. The support and tributes from those she coached show her lessons were as much about life as sport.

Hali loved to be outside and spent countless hours in the forest by her home, walking with family and friends, ensuring we slowed down to appreciate the birds. She took joy in volunteering at her daughter Evelyn's school, bringing kids on nature walks. An ideal vacation might be Rome or Paris, but was more likely a canoe trip with her loved ones: cool water swims, a crackling fire, loon calls and adventures made up along the way. An ideal winter day was on cross country skis in Gatineau Park, as countless selfies with her husband David attest. She loved Lake Superior, was married on its shores, and returned every summer.

 In her career in the federal government, she pursued issues she cared deeply about -- climate change, Indigenous issues and sport.

Hali is survived by her husband David, daughter Evelyn, stepchildren Liam and Jane, her mother Cathy Lemieux, her father Bob Gernon and stepmother Sharon Gernon, and her sister Corry. She was devoted to her family and took great pride in the fine people her children have become. She adored her nieces Lucy and Sally and was a kindred spirit to her sister. To the end, Hali made good friends everywhere.

 She will be sorely missed. But we know where to find her: beneath her favorite tree in the forest, in birdsong above, in water dripping off a paddle or the glint of snow on a sunny ski day. In the wind lifting a perfectly thrown IO flick. And in the laughter and stories of those lucky enough to have known and loved her. 

 A celebration of life will be planned in the months ahead. In her memory, please consider making a donation to the cancer society.