Gary Dean Elliott

The family lived in Courtenay until 1957, when they moved to a logging camp on Read Island, where they lived until the fall of 1964. They moved to BC’s Lower Mainland and settled in Maple Ridge.

Gary showed an early aptitude for mechanics, with his mother often asking him to get various disassembled boat engine parts off the dinner table so that the family could eat. Whatever he took apart, he fixed, even if new parts were not always at hand.

Gary had a life-changing logging accident in 1964. After a long convalescence and rehabilitation in Victoria, he trained as a heavy-duty mechanic, and went on to apprentice at Finning Tractor. Over time, he earned his journeyman and master mechanic papers, and worked in logging, construction, mining camps and various shops from the Fraser Valley to northern BC over a long career, until he retired in the late 90’s.

Gary lived in Vancouver and Maple Ridge, but always seemed to end up back on Vancouver Island. He lived in Campbell River and Victoria for a number of years, where he enjoyed boating, golfing and spending winters in California before finally moving back to Campbell River.

Gary enjoyed life and had a great sense of humour, and a ready smile to light up your day. He was always willing to talk an hour away on the phone, and solve all the world's problems.

In Gary’s later years, he courageously fought an illness which he sadly succumbed to on May 24, 2024, at his home, a few months before he would have turned 78.

Gary was predeceased by his parents and his daughter, Deanna. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Dorie, son Bradley, (grandchildren: Kimberly, Maryanna), daughter Laura (Darren) (grandchildren: Melissa, Jared and Summer), Brothers Brian (Bev) and Graeme (Pat) and their families.

Gary will be missed, forever.

**a Celebration of life will be held at a later date for family and close friends**