Gary Neil Couch

Gary Neil Couch, 81, of Prince George, BC passed away on March 22, 2025. Gary was born in Edmonton, AB to Eva Gertrude and William Joseph Couch. Gary was the youngest of his two brothers, Kenneth and Howard. His family moved from Alberta to Burnaby the summer of 1950 when he was seven. Gary is survived by his wife of 58 years, Heather, who he met at the age of 21 through a mutual friend. They were married within 2 years of dating. He leaves behind his daughters Lisa-Ann (Owen) Marshall and youngest daughter (name withheld by request); grandchildren Kaitlyn, Kristopher and Mia; in-laws Pat, Erica, George, Blair, Nola, Gary, Sheila and Gwen; nieces Shelley, Cindy, Joanne and Laura; nephews Brad, Kevin and Jessee and families. He was predeceased by his mother, father, brothers, and parent-in-laws Alfred and Roxie Harvey.

Gary was a man of service. Acts of service is how he showed his love. He served his country in the Navy from 1962 – 1965 as a gunner where at the time it was mandatory to donate blood. After the Navy, Gary donated blood consistently for 25 years contributing 103 donations.

In 1969, Gary relocated to Prince George where he contributed 35 years of service to Northwood Pulp Mill as a steam engineer. This is where he earned the endearing nick name “shredder” from his co-workers. Meaning: if the paperwork was not filled out correctly, he would rip it up in front of you, hand it back, and request it be completed correctly. Earning his steam ticket, and relocating, enabled Gary to be an excellent provider for his family.

In 1972, Gary alongside his wife, started volunteering for the Hart Highlands Ski Hill which over the years included serving on their board, Gary as president and Heather as treasurer. They joined other volunteers and worked towards the expansion of the ski hill, a new chalet, and installation of the new ski hill tow equipment. Both of Gary’s daughters hold treasured memories of family time and learning how to ski at the Hart. Gary was a weekly volunteer at the Elder Citizens Recreation Association. It was his job to meet the delivery truck; as they unloaded the groceries, he unpacked the boxes and made sure the paperwork balanced and then put away the order in the proper storage area. He also volunteered with the association’s catering group when there was a special event. Gary volunteered with his wife at the Kidney Foundation.

Gary enjoyed family time camping, fishing, boating, scuba diving, traveling, cruising and curling. He spent many hours listening to and taping his favourite 50’s music. His most-liked hobby was restoring his 1968 Ford Galaxie. Gary’s garden brought him and others great joy. He would grow tomato plants to give to others. He loved being in the garden picking and eating tomatoes. Dad taught both his daughters how to grow and care for plants. This is a tradition his family will continue.

He was a loving husband and father who made sacrifices to protect and provide for his beloved wife and precious daughters.

He will be loved and remembered. His traditions and values will be carried on by his family.

Donations may be made, in Gary’s memory, to the BC & Yukon Kidney Foundation and the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the summer.