Wilbert Gary Armstrong

It is with a great sense of loss we announce the death of Wilbert Gary Armstrong. Oct 24,1939 - March 14th, 2024. Wilbert Gary Armstrong ( known as Gary to family and friends ) was born in Peterborough, Ontario where he lived until the age of 16 before making the first of many moves during his 84 years of life. At that time he moved to Chilliwack, BC to take part in the fifth intake of the Sapper's apprentice program which led to his becoming a member of the Royal Canadian Engineers. He formed numerous friendships during that time which lasted throughout his entire life. These friends included his future wife, Phyllis Ann Armstrong, the woman he would spend the rest of his time here on Earth with.

Gary served in many places around the world, always taking his wife and daughters whenever possible. These postings took him from Chilliwack to places far and wide; Germany, Cyprus, Alert and Egypt as well as Borden and Calgary in Canada. We all knew he was proud of his family's tradition of service to his country and his wife and family felt that same pride in him for following in their footsteps. He served as an electrician for many years and before leaving the military after twenty years of service branched out into Occupational Health and Safety. This led to a career he continued for another 20 years with Canada Post which exemplified his generous nature and desire to help others. Gary started in Calgary and after several years accepted a promotion which led to his moving to Edmonton and responsibilities for the entire province.

Mom and Dad shared 65 wonderful years of marriage and love that was strong and obvious to all who knew them. It was common knowledge Phyllis was the love of his life without a doubt and his greatest concern was always her wellbeing. He was also a wonderful father to his three girls, Denise, Colleen and Melody. We always knew he loved and was proud of us and he played an active part in our lives, encouraging us in many activities that ranged from horses, figure skating, bowling and swimming and of course, camping and the occasional well remembered trips to Dairy Queen. Dad beamed with pleasure at the birth of his three grandchildren, Richard, Robyn and Jeremy as well as when his great grandchildren, Hayden, Kaitlin and Addison arrived.

Dad enjoyed many interests in life. He loved to travel and see new places with Mom at his side. While the family lived in Germany there were trips to explore the surrounding countries and this love of travel took him and his wife on many vacations in following decades. A treasure trove of photos show family camping trips, road trips, numerous cruises, an exploration of Australia and many places in between. His collections of stamps and coins were extensive as was his dedication to birdwatching. Dad also took pleasure in multiple aquariums full of fish he had bred. Sketching and painted folk art exhibited an artistic bent and he enjoyed decorating the home with pictures and art collected from around the world.

The family would like to thank three special people, Chrissie, Dawn and Steve who helped look after him and quickly became friends after he and Phyllis moved to Vancouver Island.

He will be remembered for the twinkle in his eye, mischievous grin and great sense of humour as well as his love of family.

We will miss him forever.