Garth Elliott Meacham

To say that Garth lived a full life would be an understatement. He lived for the moments, the experiences, and all the things that made life meaningful. Garth embraced life fully and made the most of every chance to learn, create, explore, and connect with the people around him.

Garth had a lot of hobbies, but Viking-inspired woodcarving was his favorite excuse to cover himself in sawdust. Entirely self-taught, he used his work to express both his creativity and his respect for the heritage behind it. Woodcarving became a big part of his life and he was both proud and humbled that he had actually made a name for himself within the industry. Much of his work is showcased at the New Iceland Heritage Museum in Gimli, and has been featured in Interlakes Lifestyle & Leisure Magazine and in the wonderfully directed docuseries Handcrafted Manitoba (“Viking Carver”), produced by Ice River Films.

Music was an essential part of Garth’s life and remained a lasting source of belonging and inspiration for him. His first guitar was a Stella that his father brought home for him when he was 10. He found joy in sharing his talent and he thought the world would be a much better place if everyone played in a band. He would often reminisce about playing in community club shows in the ‘60s with his band Off Times As Such — and in his later years, playing at the Park Theatre as lead guitarist for Lost Frequency.

While music was important to him, it was always the friendships and memories that meant the most.

He found peace and happiness outdoors, whether under a wide open sky or paddling across Lake Winnipeg in a canoe he’d restored himself or built completely from scratch. That was Garth — smart, creative, resourceful, and the kind of guy who could turn an idea into something real.

When he wasn’t busy restoring anything he could get his hands on, Garth loved sitting under the stars, smoking a good pipe, and sharing the kind of conversations that made people feel connected and appreciated.

He often spoke of the summers spent at Pelican Lake in the ’50s and ’60s with his parents, brothers, and extended family — memories that stayed close to him throughout his life.

Or remembering those “grand old days” with the Cameron’s Pipe Band, performing at the Manitoba Legislative Building alongside members of the Winnipeg Police Pipe Band during Christmastime.

Garth was a steady source of love and support for his family, always there whenever he was needed. Whether offering advice, fixing a fence or simply being present, Garth created a sense of warmth, comfort and security for his family.

He had a way of making ordinary moments feel special, and he left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Even as life began to slow down and his health became a challenge, Garth continued to face everything head-on with strength, grace, and quiet bravery.

Garth is survived by his wife of 48 years, Lorraine, their children Jeff (Nicole), Stephen (Monique), brothers Richard of Nanaimo BC and Vincent of Winnipeg and grandchildren Talon, Brooke, Isla and Dax as well as many other nieces, nephews and in-laws.

If there was one thing Garth would want people to remember about him, it was the compassion and care he showed toward all living creatures. In honor of the animal lover he was, donations may be made to an animal shelter of your choice in lieu of flowers.

A celebration of life will be planned for late summer.