Ted Gertin

Ted Gertin, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025 at the age of 89. Born on October 27, 1936, in Montreal, Canada, Ted lived a life marked by curiosity, intellect, and a deep appreciation for the richness of human experience. Ted earned his degree in Electrical Engineering from McGill University and later completed a Master’s in International Business at Thunderbird School of Global Management in 1977. Though trained as an engineer, Ted’s curiosity led him in many directions. He loved studying global markets, captivated by both the beauty of how the world moved and the possibilities it revealed. A true polyglot, Ted spoke nine languages and could strike up a conversation almost anywhere in the world. His adventures took him across continents where he immersed himself in local traditions, cuisine, and friendships. He was as comfortable rally driving through rugged terrain as he was on horseback, skiing down alpine slopes, or practicing jiu-jitsu. He even found himself in hostage situations during his travels, yet remained calm, resourceful, and kind, embodying the quiet strength that defined him. Ted also had a deep love for animals and an uncommon gift for connecting with them. Among his most memorable companions were two gibbons he was gifted early in his travels. They joined him on journeys across the globe and became part of his life story, symbols of his boundless curiosity and compassion for all living things. Ted had a lifelong love of photography, newspapers, and thoughtful conversation, sometimes enjoyed with a Manhattan in hand on special occasions. His photography reflected his fearless curiosity about the world. He sought out unusual angles and moments few others would dare to capture, often finding himself in the middle of war-torn streets, riots, or faraway corners of the world just to get the shot and, most importantly, to connect with the people within it. Above all, he valued connection with his family, friends, and the many people he met along the way. His family and friends will remember him for his intellect, humor, and adventurous spirit, a man who reminded us, in his words, that we all come from the same place: the third planet from the sun. A memorial service to honor Ted’s life will be held at Congregation Sha'are Shalom in Leesburg, Virginia, on Tuesday, November 11, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who knew Ted to raise a glass in his honor and share a story from their own adventures. Donations in his memory may be made to McGill University’s The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute–Hospital) at www.alumni.mcgill.ca/give

Ted Gertin

October 27, 1936 - November 2, 2025