Gerald "Gerry" Pettit was born in Toronto and began his career as an administrator at Durham College in November, 1969. During his lengthy career at the college, he spent just as many years as a coach of Durham's hockey and golf programs. Gerry was the first-ever coach of Durham's men's basketball program that began in 1969 and with a combination of professionalism and a first class presence in whichever sport he coached, Pettit guided numerous teams throughout the years to team and individual successes.

An outstanding golfer himself, it was in his 23 years as the head coach of the golf program where Pettit enjoyed his great success. Led by back-to-back gold medal golf championships in 1988 and 1989, his teams also won four bronze team medals and one silver team medal. Only three times in his 23 years did his teams not finish as one of the top 10 teams in the province. Having the chance to coach many fine young golfers, including four time OCAA champion Ryan Hughes, ranks high in Gerry's most memorable moments.

He retired from the College officially in 1993 as the director of admissions and has remained active in the Durham Athletic programs as a casual advisor, fan and friend. Gerry was honoured as he was inducted into the Durham College Sports Hall of Fame in 1997.