To our shock and sadness, Garry passed away suddenly while working in his garden. Survived by his wife of 59 years Sonja, their daughter Krista (John) Scanlon, and family in Canada & the US. Predeceased by his parents Joseph & Rose Marie, brother Ron, sister Beverly, uncle & pal Ted Daubert (1918-2018,) mother-in-law Helen, brother-in-law Ray Rosback & nephew Cliff.
Born and raised in Flin Flon, Manitoba, Garry developed a great love of the outdoors with his dog Laddie & friends. Summers included spending time at the family farm in Duval, Sask., memories he cherished. A good student, he also enjoyed piano earning his Royal Conservatory Grade 8 level. He entered UBC in 1958, first in Forestry then transferring in Physical Education in 1960, returning home each summer to work in the Hudson Bay Mining Co. After graduating with a major in P.E. and minor in history, he began teaching at Windermere Secondary, while continuing his part-time studies University of Washington then University of Oregon. He moved to Killarney Secondary (Go Cougars!) and completed his Masters of P.E. from UO in 1968. He was appointed P.E. Department Head at Killarney, a position he held until his retirement at 60 in 1999.
Garry joined the UBC Faculty of Education as a student teacher advisor. He passed along his enthusiasm and teaching experience, and guided his student’s practicums until his mandatory retirement at 65. As there was a St. John Ambulance “Sea-to-Sky” Branch in North Van, Garry began teaching as a first-aid instructor. For the next 15 years he taught both in the office and at many North Shore businesses and elementary schools, in Whistler, and with local First Nations. When COVID began, he reluctantly stopped teaching and officially resigned on August 12, 2021.
Garry loved every aspect being a teacher: coaching, paperwork, organization, class ski trips to the local mountains. It has often been said that he made a difference in a lot of student’s lives. Each September when school would begin, we would hear “if I could, I would go back and do it all again.”
Known for his enthusiasm, strong voice, and “tell me something” conversation starter, Garry could talk to anyone, whether about dogs, vehicles (especially Ford pickups,) sports or gardening. He supported local youth sports and events, and was involved with many organizations over the years as an eager volunteer or staff, from the YMCA to the Vancouver Marathon where he was once named Volunteer of the Year, to the BC High School Soccer Championships.
Since 1967, Garry was part of Evans Lake Forest Education Society & Camp. Whether working in camp as summer staff, his years on the Board, or volunteering for work weekends, Evans Lake played a big part in his life year-round. The family and their 3 Siberian Huskies Tara, Tundra, then Tikka, all enjoyed the freedom of the lake, canoeing and hiking. Known as “Bear,” Garry’s wood “Genuine Bear Tags,” each one designed and handmade for that year’s staff and lucky recipients, became a cherished tradition. Last year, his custom limited-edition tags became a popular fund-raiser for the camp, and he was very proud of that.
At Garry’s request there was no formal service. The family gratefully acknowledges the many calls, cards, flowers, and donations received. If you would like to honour Garry, please make a donation in his name to the BCSPCA West Vancouver Branch, BC Heart & Stroke Foundation, Evans Lake Forest Education Society, an athletic charity of your choice, or share your memories online at dignitymemorial.com
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.firstmemorialnorthvancouver.com for the Haensgen family.
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